Why do you mess things up so bad, Apple? The new photos app is a *trainwreck* no joke.
I’m experiencing significant frustration with the recent updates to the Apple Photos app, which is not uncommon based on user feedback from platforms like X (formerly Twitter).
So I asked Grok about this and good ‘ol Grok told me this:
Here’s a balanced look at your situation and some potential solutions:
Understanding the Issues
- User Experience: Many users have reported issues with the Photos app post-update, including difficulties with navigation, missing photos, and general UI dissatisfaction. This suggests that while Apple intended to improve functionality or user experience, the changes might not have met everyone’s expectations or introduced new bugs.
- Apple’s Track Record: Apple has a history of releasing updates that sometimes introduce new bugs or change user interfaces in ways that not everyone appreciates. However, Apple typically addresses these issues through subsequent updates.
Why You Might Feel This Way
- Change in UI/UX: Changes in user interface or user experience can be challenging to adapt to, especially if previous versions were more intuitive for you.
- Feature Utility: If the new features added in the update do not serve your needs or if they complicate simpler tasks, the update might indeed feel more like a downgrade.
Alternatives to Consider
If you’re looking for alternatives to manage your photos, here are some options:
- Google Photos: Offers extensive storage options, AI-powered photo organization, and easy sharing features. It’s free for a certain amount of storage, with paid plans for more.
- Adobe Photoshop Lightroom: Great for photo editing professionals. It also offers cloud storage, but it’s more geared towards advanced photo management and editing.
- Affinity Photo: A non-subscription-based alternative to Adobe, with powerful photo editing tools. While not primarily a photo manager, it can serve that purpose well if you’re into editing.
- Microsoft OneDrive with OneDrive Photos: If you’re in the Microsoft ecosystem, this could be a straightforward alternative, especially with integration across devices.
- Open-source options like digiKam (for desktop, not mobile): If you prefer open-source, digiKam provides extensive photo management and editing capabilities, though it might require more setup.
Steps Forward
- Update: Ensure your Photos app and iOS are up to date, as Apple might have released fixes for known issues.
- Feedback: Apple does take user feedback seriously. Consider providing detailed feedback through the Feedback Assistant app on your Mac or through official channels.
- Transitioning: If you decide to switch, remember that moving your photo library might require some time and effort, especially to ensure metadata (like dates, locations) transfers correctly.
- Hybrid Approach: You might not need to abandon Apple Photos entirely. For instance, using Google Photos for backups and easy access, while keeping Apple Photos for its integration with your Apple ecosystem could be a middle ground.
Conclusion
Your frustration is valid, and it’s understandable to seek alternatives when software updates disrupt your workflow or enjoyment. While Apple might eventually refine the Photos app, exploring other tools might not only solve your immediate problems but also introduce you to new functionalities or ecosystems that you might find beneficial. Remember, technology, especially software, should serve you, not vice versa. If Apple Photos no longer fits how you want to manage your memories, other solutions are indeed worth considering.