With the arrival of iOS 18, Apple has completely redesigned the Photos application, eliminating the classic navigation bar and grouping all functions on a single screen. This change could well be the biggest change to the Photos app since its launch, and it has not left anyone indifferent. While some users celebrate the new features, many others criticize the new design, which can be uncomfortable in most situations.
Although it is not possible to return to the previous design, there are several ways to customize the new interface to make it look more practical and efficient. If you’re not comfortable with the new design, these tips will help you adapt and make better use of the features it offers.
Customize the toolbar and hide what you don’t need
One of the first steps to get used to the new Photos app is to organize the main screen according to your preferences. To do this, scroll to the bottom of the app and click on Edit. From there, you can reorder and prioritize the sections you use most, such as Recent Days, Albums, People & Pets, Memories, or Pinned Collections.
Another interesting option is Pinned Collectionswhich works as an “album within an album.” Although it may seem repetitive, it is useful for keeping your most used folders, such as screenshots or specific albums, accessible. If this section is not necessary for you, you can disable it along with other options that you consider unnecessary, such as Featured Photos or Wallpaper Suggestions.
The redesign also allows us to eliminate those visual elements that can clutter the interface. If you are not interested in seeing some sections, such as Travel or the featured images generated by the app’s artificial intelligence (although in Spain we do not have this option yet), simply uncheck them in the edit menu for hide them. This will help you create a cleaner space focused on your needs.
Another feature that goes unnoticed in the new Photos is the use of filters to manage your images. From the full library view, swipe down and tap the arrows to access filtering options. Here you can select what types of content you want to see: photos, videos, edited images, screenshots or favorites. Additionally, you can organize your files by date captured or recently added.
There’s also the ability to exclude screenshots or images shared with you, making viewing your main library even simpler. These filters are ideal for quickly finding what you are looking for in an extensive collection of photos.
The best of the new design of the Photos app
Despite the criticism, not everything in the new Photos app is negative. Apple has significantly improved the search function, allowing you to find images with specific parameters such as “parks in Madrid” or “John with a blue shirt.” These capabilities, powered by artificial intelligence, make locate specific photos be much easier and faster. Although in Spain we do not yet have the Apple Intelligence functions, this search works really well.
The new Photos app in iOS 18 represents a radical change that may be uncomfortable at first, but with these settings it is possible to optimize it and make it easier to use. Meanwhile, the debate on the design remains open. Is this redesign a necessary improvement or an unnecessary change?
Leave us your opinion: are you getting used to the new Photos app or do you still miss the classic design?
