Create tab in Google Photos

Product Introduction

1. The Create tab in Google Photos is a centralized hub for AI-powered creative tools designed to transform static images into dynamic content. It integrates features like video generation, style remixing, and collage creation into a single interface within the Google Photos app. This tab simplifies access to advanced editing tools, enabling users to animate photos, apply artistic styles, and generate shareable content directly from their existing photo library.

2. The core value of the Create tab lies in democratizing advanced AI-driven creativity for everyday users. By consolidating tools like Photo to video and Remix, it eliminates the need for third-party apps or technical expertise to produce professional-quality content. The tab leverages Google’s AI infrastructure, including Veo 2 and SynthID, to ensure outputs are both innovative and transparent, with built-in safeguards for responsible AI usage.

---

Main Features

1. Photo to Video: This feature uses Veo 2, Google’s advanced generative AI model, to animate static images into six-second video clips. Users select a photo and choose between “Subtle movements” for realistic animations or “I’m feeling lucky” for experimental effects, generating shareable videos directly within the app. The output includes both visible and invisible SynthID watermarks to identify AI-generated content.

2. Remix: Remix applies AI to transform photos into stylized outputs such as anime, comic art, sketches, or 3D animations. Users select a style preset, and the tool processes the image in seconds, preserving key details while applying artistic filters. Like Photo to Video, Remix outputs carry SynthID watermarks to maintain transparency about AI involvement.

3. Centralized Creation Hub: The Create tab aggregates all creative tools, including collages, highlight videos, and AI features, into one location. It dynamically updates based on user feedback and new tool releases, ensuring users can easily discover and experiment with the latest functionalities. The interface is optimized for intuitive navigation, reducing the time spent searching for editing options.

---

Problems Solved

1. Fragmented Creative Workflows: The Create tab addresses the challenge of accessing disparate editing tools across multiple apps by unifying them within Google Photos. Users no longer need to export images to third-party software for advanced edits, streamlining the creative process.

2. Target User Group: The tab caters to casual users and content creators seeking to enhance photos or videos for social media, personal projects, or sharing with family. It is particularly valuable for individuals lacking technical editing skills but wanting professional-looking results.

3. Typical Use Cases: Common scenarios include animating old family photos for digital scrapbooks, converting pet photos into playful anime-style art, or generating short videos from vacation snapshots to share on social platforms. The tools are also used for creating personalized collages or highlight reels for events.

---

Unique Advantages

1. Integration with Google Photos Ecosystem: Unlike standalone apps, the Create tab leverages users’ existing photo libraries and Google’s cloud infrastructure for seamless processing. This eliminates manual uploads and ensures edits are saved directly to the user’s account.

2. AI Transparency and Safety: The inclusion of SynthID watermarks and proactive safety measures like “red teaming” (stress-testing for vulnerabilities) distinguishes it from competitors. These features ensure ethical AI usage while maintaining output quality.

3. Scalability and Updates: Google’s AI infrastructure allows rapid deployment of new tools, such as future style presets or video effects, directly to the Create tab. Users benefit from continuous improvements without needing app updates or additional purchases.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I access the Create tab in Google Photos?
   The Create tab will begin rolling out in the U.S. in August 2025, appearing as a dedicated button in the Google Photos app on Android and iOS. Users must ensure their app is updated to the latest version.

2. Are AI-generated videos and images marked as synthetic?
   Yes, all outputs from Photo to Video and Remix include a visible watermark in the corner and an invisible SynthID digital watermark embedded in the file metadata. This aligns with Google’s AI transparency standards.

3. Are there usage limits for Photo to Video or Remix?
   Google may apply usage limits during the initial rollout to manage server load and ensure quality. Limits will be communicated in-app and adjusted based on user feedback and system capacity.