In its latest update, Google Photos is experimenting with enhanced text editing tools for videos, bringing a touch of Instagram’s flair to its built-in editor. The new features, spotted in version 7.49 of the app, include expanded font options, color effects, background styling, and alignment controls—allowing users to create more dynamic and personalized video captions.
Currently, Google Photos allows basic text overlays with limited customization. The upcoming changes aim to elevate that experience by introducing tools similar to those found in Instagram Reels, such as animated text, vibrant backgrounds, and flexible sizing. These additions could make Google Photos a more appealing option for casual video editors who want quick, polished results without switching apps.
The update was uncovered through an APK teardown, meaning it’s not yet officially released and could still change or be scrapped. However, the presence of these features in test builds suggests Google is actively exploring ways to make its photo and video tools more competitive with social platforms.
This move aligns with Google’s broader strategy of integrating AI and user-friendly design into its ecosystem. Recent updates to Google Photos have included AI-powered search, image-to-video conversion, and even gesture-based cleanup tools inspired by Tinder’s swipe interface. By borrowing successful elements from other apps, Google continues to evolve Photos into a more versatile creative suite.
While Google Photos may never match Instagram’s social reach, these new editing features bring it closer in terms of usability and visual appeal—especially for users who prioritize privacy and prefer editing outside of social media platforms.
