Android’s Photo Picker Gets Search Functionality

Google has introduced a search bar to its Photo Picker app on Android, allowing users to quickly select specific photos from their gallery without having to scroll through hundreds of options. The update aims to improve the user experience and provide more convenience when sharing photos.

According to a recent report by Android Authority, the new feature is rolling out slowly, but it marks an important step towards enhancing the app’s functionality. The search bar is designed to be basic, similar to what was seen in Google Photos prior to its more complex AI-powered search function.

This update is a significant improvement over the existing Photo Picker, which has been criticized for being inconvenient and time-consuming. By introducing a search function, users can now easily find specific photos without having to sift through their entire gallery.

The new feature also aligns with Android’s goal of enforcing greater privacy and security. The Photo Picker allows apps that access local and cloud images to be subject to higher restrictions, and the search function will likely aid in this enforcement.

While the update is still rolling out, users can expect a more streamlined experience when selecting photos for sharing or use.

Source: https://9to5google.com/2025/07/08/androids-photo-picker-getting-a-search-function