Archive — US — techcrunch
Apple brings back tabs to the Photos app in iOS 26
Apple is reinstating tabs in the Photos app in iOS 26 following user complaints about the iOS 18 redesign. The update will include separate Library and Collections tabs for easier navigation. Additionally, the app will feature a capability to convert 2D photos into 3D spatial photos, enhancing its integration with Apple's Vision Pro headset.
Key points
- User complaints about iOS 18 Photos app redesign led to backlash.
- iOS 26 will reintroduce a tabbed interface for better user experience.
- New Photos app features include a separate Library and Collections tab.
- The app will allow transformation of 2D photos into 3D spatial photos.
- Enhanced Camera app with more accessible features and modes.
Why it matters
- Apple's ongoing UX/UI evolution ties into wider trends of user-centered design in tech.
- The preference for tabbed navigation reflects shifts in digital product design.
- Integration of spatial computing indicates a future trend towards immersive experiences in personal device interfaces.
Apple's response to user feedback underscores the importance of user experience in software design, while the new features in iOS 26 position the Photos app at the forefront of spatial technology trends.