In response to user feedback, Apple has scaled back some updates to the Photos app in iOS 18. The latest changes, which include removing certain features and modifying others, are part of the software's fifth developer beta released on Monday, Aug. 5. Developers can now install this pared-down version and evaluate the updates.

Key Change Includes Removal of the Carousel Feature

The most notable adjustment is the complete removal of the Carousel feature from the Photos app. According to Engadget, this feature used "on-device intelligence" to compile what it deemed the best content into a swipeable row.

Previously located to the right of the photo grid, the Carousel's elimination aims to simplify the app and address complaints from beta testers who found it unnecessary and cluttered.

Enhanced Photo Viewing Experience

In addition to removing the Carousel, Apple has refined the All Photos view to display more of the photos grid. This adjustment enhances the user experience by making it easier to navigate through photos.

Furthermore, the update includes adding Recently Saved content to the Recent Days collection, providing a more intuitive organization of recent photos.

Improved Album Accessibility

Another significant change is the enhanced accessibility of albums. For users with multiple albums, locating this section has been a common issue.

Apple's latest update aims to resolve this by making albums easier to find, addressing a frequent complaint among testers.

Apple Knows How to Listen From Photos App Users

Apple introduced the Photos app changes as a major part of its 2024 software update. Despite the aim to streamline the app into a single, customizable view, many users found the added features superfluous and obstructive.

A popular Reddit thread from July, with over 1,000 upvotes, highlighted these frustrations.

"Once again taking a rapid-use app and making it into an experience for no reason. I just want a camera roll and maybe the ability to sort photos by location. It was perfectly fine, if maybe a bit bloated, before. But this is an unmitigated mess," Redditor u/thiskillstheredditor commented.

Looking Ahead: Public Beta and Full Launch

The updates made in response to user feedback will be critical in improving the app's user experience ahead of the full public release of iOS 18 this fall.

While these changes are currently in the developer beta, they are expected to appear in the public beta soon. Apple's willingness to listen to user feedback and make necessary adjustments demonstrates its commitment to enhancing the Photos app for a better user experience.

The Cupertino giant's recent updates to the Photos app in iOS 18 reflect a concerted effort to respond to user feedback and streamline the app's functionality. By removing the Carousel feature, improving the All Photos view, and making albums easier to find, Apple aims to create a more user-friendly experience.

In the meantime, check MacRumors's report about all updates leading to iOS 18 Beta 5.