The iPhone Photos App: A User Perspective
App Store Ratings: A Low Score
The iPhone Photos app currently holds a low rating on the App Store. Some would consider this a disappointing score.
The Photos App: Where It’s Found
The Photos app is a standard feature on multiple Apple devices:
- iPhone
- iPad
- Apple Watch
- Apple Vision Pro
iOS 18: The Redesign (or Overhaul)
The iOS 18 update brought significant changes to the Photos app. These changes have been met with mixed reactions.
Key Changes in iOS 18: Frustration for Users
The changes to the Photos app in iOS 18 have caused frustration, particularly for long-time users.
Default View Congestion
The updated app introduces new features upfront:
- "Recent Days"
- "Memories"
- "Trips"
- "Wallpaper suggestions"
These elements appear by default, potentially cluttering the main view.
User Preferences and Customization
- Some users may find these options beneficial.
- Many users may perceive these additions as unnecessary or distracting.
Apple offers a "Customize & Reorder" button to manage these extra features.
The Extra Swipe: An Added Step
Even after disabling the additional features, users still encounter an extra swipe before reaching their photo library. This adds a step to what was once a simple process.
User Complaints: The App Store Feedback
Users have voiced their dissatisfaction with the redesigned Photos app in the App Store’s review section.
Negative Reviews: A Trend
Recent reviews in the App Store highlight negative user experiences.
Review Details:
- Several recent reviews, primarily from 2024, mention iOS 18 in their feedback.
- There is at least one review from 2025.
The Negative Sentiment Continues
The negative feedback surrounding the Photos app persists.
Recent Review: A Closer Look
A recent user review expresses ongoing criticism.
Newest Review Highlight:
A user complains about increased bugs, especially in editing photos and videos after recent updates.
Specific Issues:
- Glitchy functionality when adding text.
- Problems editing videos.
Workarounds and Frustration
The reviewer has found themselves reliant on third-party apps to overcome the app’s shortcomings.
Troubleshooting and Persistence
Despite personal troubleshooting efforts, the reported bugs have persisted for months without solutions from Apple. This has made the app more difficult to use.
Broader Concerns: Quality and Support
The reviewer expresses disappointment in Apple’s perceived decline in software quality and customer service.
The Cost Factor
The reviewer highlights the high cost of Apple devices, adding to their sense of dissatisfaction. They hope Apple will address these concerns.
