This little-known Google Photos shortcut will take you directly to classic search

This trick is perfect for those who hate Ask Photos.

Apr 28, 2025 - 16:38

This little-known Google Photos shortcut will take you directly to classic search

Google Photos app with photo stack edited

Credit: Hadlee Simons / Android Authority

Google Photos has a shortcut that bypasses Ask Photos and takes you directly into classic search.
Users must double-tap the search icon to activate the shortcut.
This gesture doesn’t work for Google Photos on iPhone.

When you need to find a photo in your Google Photos library, you could scroll through the hundreds of images saved on your phone or just use the search tab. In the search tab, you have the choice to use “Ask Photos” or classic search. If you simply want to go directly to classic search, there’s a shortcut you may want to know about.

Spotted by 9to5Google, you can use a double-tapping gesture to get sent right to classic search. It’s as simple as double-tapping on the search, or Ask, icon. When this is done, you’ll see all of the old UI, including recent searches and suggestions. According to the outlet, this gesture only works with the Android version of the app. If you’re in Google Photos on iPhone, double-tapping only brings up a search box if you’re already in the search tab.