The Android photo picker just got a handy upgrade – now you can easily access photos stored in the cloud when sharing with apps!
Previously, the photo picker only showed photos saved locally on your device. While this protects privacy by limiting what apps can access, it’s not always convenient if you want to share cloud-stored pics.
Well, Google has fixed that in the latest update rolling out now. Here’s how it works:
Access Cloud Photos Seamlessly
When you go to share photos through an app, the picker will now show tabs for both device folders AND connected cloud services. For example, you’ll see your Google Photos library alongside folders like DCIM and Screenshots.
You can simply tap a cloud folder and select the photos there just like local ones. The app will be granted access only to those specific cloud photos you picked.
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This gives you seamless access to images you’ve captured on other devices and stored in the cloud. No more emailing photos to yourself or downloading them to your phone first!
It’s also great if you offload photos from your device to the cloud to save local storage. The picker makes those cloud-stored shots easily shareable.
Google Photos Supported Initially
Currently, only Google Photos works with the updated picker. But other services can add support through the official API too.
There is one catch – each device manufacturer can choose which cloud providers integrate with the picker, up to 3 services. And they decide the default option.
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Rolling Out Now
The cloud photo picker is rolling out now as part of the February Google System Update for Android 12 and above. Look out for it soon on your device!
This is a small but super convenient enhancement. What cloud storage services would you like to see integrated with the photo picker? Let me know in the comments!