How to Make iOS 18 Photos App Less Annoying: A Comprehensive Guide
Apple’s iOS 18 introduces many enhancements, but for some, the Photos app can still feel cumbersome. Whether it's the organisation of media, unnecessary pop-ups, or overly aggressive suggestions, these issues can interrupt the seamless user experience. This blog explores practical strategies to make the iOS 18 Photos app more user-friendly, helping you unlock its full potential.
1. Why the iOS 18 Photos App Can Feel Annoying
The Photos app is packed with features, but not all are appreciated. Common complaints include:
- Overwhelming Suggestions: Automatic prompts for Memories, Featured Photos, or Sharing Suggestions.
- Cluttered Interface: Too many tabs and albums for casual users.
- Limited Manual Controls: Over-reliance on AI-based organisation.
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2. Customise Memories and Suggestions
The Memories feature often showcases photos you'd rather not revisit. Customising it can make the app less intrusive.
Turn Off Memories Notifications:
- Go to Settings > Notifications > Photos.
- Toggle off Memories.
Disable Specific Categories:
- Open the Photos app.
- Tap For You and select a memory.
- Press Feature Less or block the person/event entirely.
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3. Declutter Your Photos Library
A cluttered library can make navigation frustrating. Here’s how to organise your photos effectively:
Use Folders:
- Open the Photos app.
- Tap Albums > New Folder.
- Organise albums into folders for easy access.
Delete Duplicates:
- Go to Albums > Utilities > Duplicates.
- Merge or delete duplicate photos.
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4. Manage Auto-Created Albums
iOS automatically generates albums for screenshots, downloads, and more. While useful, they can overwhelm your library.
Hide Unnecessary Albums:
- Tap Albums > Edit.
- Deselect albums you rarely use.
Combine Similar Albums: Merge photos manually from lesser-used albums into main folders.
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5. Simplify Sharing Options
The Photos app often suggests sharing images based on AI algorithms. If these suggestions feel invasive, tweak the settings.
Disable Sharing Suggestions:
- Open Settings > Photos.
- Toggle off Show Suggested Sharing.
Use Manual Sharing: Long-press a photo and select Share. Avoid unnecessary AI interference.
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6. Turn Off Persistent Notifications
Notifications for suggestions and highlights can interrupt workflows. Disable them for a quieter experience.
- Steps to Disable Notifications:
- Go to Settings > Photos > Notifications.
- Toggle off all unnecessary categories.
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7. Leverage Advanced Search Features
While iOS Photos' search functionality is robust, users may find it inconsistent. Learn how to use it effectively.
- Search by Keywords: Type specific queries like "Beach 2023" for instant results.
- Use Filters: Tap Search > Filters to narrow results by date, location, or category.
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8. Adjust Photo Editing Defaults
The editing tools in iOS 18 are excellent, but default settings may not suit everyone. Adjust them to streamline your workflow.
Create Custom Presets:
- Edit a photo and save the settings as a preset.
- Apply it to other photos for consistency.
Disable Auto Enhancements: Avoid automatic edits by tapping Revert after opening a photo in Edit mode.
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9. Optimise Storage and Syncing
Syncing issues can cause a headache when managing media, especially if you use iCloud.
Check Sync Settings:
- Go to Settings > Photos > iCloud Photos.
- Toggle Optimise iPhone Storage to save space.
Download Photos Locally: Keep high-resolution copies for offline access by selecting Download and Keep Originals.
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10. Use Third-Party Alternatives
If iOS Photos still feels limiting, explore other apps for specific needs.
- Google Photos: Better for cloud storage and AI-driven search.
- Adobe Lightroom Mobile: Superior editing capabilities.
- VSCO: A great choice for filters and professional-grade edits.
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11. Practical Tips for Everyday Use
To make the Photos app less annoying, incorporate these habits into your routine:
- Regularly Delete Unwanted Media: Avoid clutter by deleting unnecessary photos weekly.
- Set Favourites: Tap the heart icon to quickly access your favourite shots.
- Backup Photos Often: Use a combination of iCloud and external drives for safe storage.
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12. How Apple Could Improve the Photos App
While iOS 18 offers many features, there’s room for improvement:
- Customisable Home Interface: Let users decide which tabs and sections appear by default.
- Better AI Suggestions: Make AI suggestions opt-in rather than default.
- Improved Privacy Options: Include more robust tools for hiding or locking sensitive photos.
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Conclusion
Apple’s Photos app in iOS 18 is powerful but can feel intrusive or cluttered without proper setup. By customising settings, decluttering your library, and exploring advanced features, you can make the Photos app a seamless part of your digital life.
Embrace these tips to make How to Make iOS 18 Photos App Less Annoying a reality in 2025. Whether you’re a casual user or a photography enthusiast, these adjustments will improve your experience.