Google Photos Adds Video Playback Speed Control on Android

Google announced two new updates for Google Photos on Android on April 6, 2026, introducing an AI-powered enhancement tool and controls for video playback speed.

The AI Enhance feature is designed to streamline the photo editing process by providing a single button that automatically balances light and color. This tool allows users to avoid extensive manual editing by applying a quick fix that focuses on adjusting lighting and contrast levels.

In a post on X, Google stated that the tool allows users to elevate your images with a tap, balancing light and color instantly because memories deserve better than “okay” lighting.

Google noted that the output of the AI Enhance tool varies by device. The feature is currently rolling out to Android users worldwide.

Video Playback Speed Controls

Alongside the AI tool, Google is introducing playback speed controls for videos within the Android app. Google identified this feature as a top request from the user community.

To adjust the speed of a video, users can open the Photos app, select a video, and tap the three-dot menu. From this menu, users can select playback speed to choose from the following options:

• 0.25x
• 0.5x
• 1x
• 1.5x
• 2x

After selecting the desired speed, users select the checkmark to complete the action.

While the AI Enhance button is being deployed globally, the video playback speed controls are in the earlier stages of rollout and may not be available to all users worldwide yet.