Photos App in iOS 26: Everything That Changed

3 min read 08.12.2025

Discover the new features of the Photos app in iOS 26 with updated navigation, filters, and spatial scenes.

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Photos App Update in iOS 26: What's New

The Photos app in iOS 26 has undergone significant changes. After a redesign in iOS 18, Apple has made adjustments to the design and updated the navigation in the new version. Notably, new 3D image features and other useful updates have been introduced.

Photos App in iOS 26: Everything That Changed

Navigation and Interface

In iOS 18, Apple introduced a unified view of the Photos app without tabs. In iOS 26, the tab bar has returned, equipped with buttons to switch between the "Library" and "Collections" sections. A separate search button has also been added, now located at the bottom of the screen, whereas it was previously at the top.

The "Library" section offers an overview of all images and screenshots, similar to iOS 17. A larger "Select" button has appeared at the top, along with access to filters and viewing options, including image zoom, excluding screenshots, and images shared with you. While filters were available in iOS 18, their interface was hidden unless you scrolled through the library. In the new layout, searching and switching between years and months has become more convenient.

Collections and Views

The "Collections" tab now features all possible viewing modes, previously combined into a single view. Recent days, as well as popular categories such as "People," "Animals," "Favorites," "Memories," "Travel," "Albums," and "Featured Photos," are located at the top. Special views allow you to see more collections on one screen.

The "Media Types" and "Utilities" sections have more prominent and larger buttons, making navigation and selection of additional options easier.

Liquid Glass Design

Like other apps in iOS 26, Photos features a new Liquid Glass design. Panels with two buttons have a transparent background, allowing you to see the photos behind them. When the navigation panel is expanded, it remains transparent, emphasizing the images. Other elements, such as search, select buttons, and tabs, have a smooth, rounded appearance with transparency, creating a light and modern interface.

Spatial Scenes

iOS 26 introduces the Spatial Scenes feature, which adds depth and realism to images. It separates the subject from the background, creating the illusion of movement when tilting the phone forward or backward. To activate, tap on the image and touch the hexagon icon in the upper right corner. Then move the device — and you will see the depth effect. This feature works with all photos, even those already in the library, and uses generative AI to add volume without the need for additional Apple Intelligence services. Supported on iPhone 12 and newer models.

Collection Settings

The "Collections" section now features a more noticeable "Move" button, making it easier to rearrange items. You can still drag collections to change their order, but it is now impossible to exclude certain types. Collections can be collapsed — then only their names will be visible, without preview thumbnails. Quick access to settings is located at the top: collapse all collections, show all, change order, or choose another view, such as larger or smaller thumbnails.

Conclusion

The Photos app in iOS 26 has received a modern design, new features, and improved navigation, making working with photos more convenient and intuitive. More details about all the innovations can be found in a special review of this version.