Exploring the New Photos App on iPadOS 18

The updated Photos app on iPad with iPadOS 18 brings exciting changes. The thoughtfully redesigned interface immediately catches the eye, though the sidebar remains mostly familiar with just a few new collections added. The main improvement is in the central interface, where collections and features are now more intuitively accessible.

Customization and Organization

One of the key updates is the ability to customize and organize the Photos app more effectively. The new interface allows for the rearrangement and hiding of different collections as per your preference, which I find quite useful. For instance, if you’re not interested in the ‘Wallpaper Suggestions’ collection, you can easily remove it from view. Additionally, the ability to reorder collections means you can have your most frequently used collections, like ‘Trips’ or ‘Albums’, positioned at the top for easy access.

Enhanced Library Features

The library section of the Photos app has also seen some significant improvements. Now, when you access the library, you can enjoy a clearer view by hiding the collections, allowing you to focus solely on your photos. This section also introduces a new toolbar that aids in navigating through your photo library more efficiently. The toolbar includes options to view your photos by months or years, and a new filtering option that lets you display only certain types of photos, such as favorites or edited images.

Intelligent Features and Editing

iPadOS 18 brings with it enhanced Apple Intelligence features that are integrated into the Photos app. These include the ability to create memory movies from your photos and videos based on descriptions you provide, like ‘beach’, making it a breeze to relive those special moments. Additionally, the new cleanup tool is particularly impressive, allowing you to remove unwanted elements from your photos seamlessly. This tool is a fantastic addition for anyone looking to enhance their photos without needing complex editing software.

Syncing and Settings Adjustments

Another practical update is the improved access to settings and sync status within the Photos app. Now, by simply tapping on the icon in the upper right-hand corner, you can check the sync status of your photos with iCloud, manage shared library settings, and adjust view options like HDR and motion. This centralized access to settings makes managing your photo library more straightforward and convenient.

Overall, the updates to the Photos app on iPad with iPadOS 18 have made it not only more user-friendly but also more powerful, thanks to the integration of Apple Intelligence. Whether you’re looking to organize your photos better, create beautiful memory movies, or edit images with ease, the new Photos app is equipped to enhance your photo management and creativity on the iPad.