Apple iOS 27 adds manual keyword tagging to Photos app

Apple has introduced a manual keyword tagging feature in the Photos app for iOS 27. This allows users to assign custom labels to individual images. The update aims to improve searchability for specific photos that automatic recognition tools might miss. The feature is available on devices running the new operating system, including the iPhone 15 Pro. Users can add descriptive terms to pictures. Examples include appliance model numbers or travel details. This method complements existing automatic searches for people, pets, and places by adding a layer of user-defined context.

Samsung Galaxy phones offer similar functionality through the built-in Gallery app. Users can also add manual tags to images here. The specific location of these tagging controls may vary depending on the device model and the version of the Gallery software installed.

Google Pixel phones take a different approach. They rely on automatic recognition within Google Photos. This system identifies objects and locations within images without requiring manual labeling. Users can search for terms like "dog" or "receipt" to find relevant pictures based on the app's analysis. Google Photos also includes a dedicated Documents collection. It automatically organizes backed-up images of receipts and other paperwork. This feature helps users locate important documents quickly without creating multiple albums.

For all three platforms, albums provide an additional method for grouping related photos from specific events or projects. Creating an album for home repairs, for example, can keep pictures of paint colors and appliance labels in one place.

Experts recommend starting with photos that are frequently needed. Travel confirmations or warranty information are good candidates. Simple, memorable names are more effective for search purposes than overly specific labels that are difficult to recall later. Photo organization should not replace regular backups of important images. Users are advised to protect sensitive information by considering where their photos are stored in cloud accounts. These tools help reduce the time spent searching through large photo libraries for specific images.