Google Photos has long allowed you to upload multiple files manually or automatically to the cloud. However, when switching phones or using multiple devices, you might need to download photos and videos. Previously, this could only be done by downloading single media files, which was time-consuming.

Initially, Android Authority reported hidden features in the latest Google Photos that would allow users to bulk download photos or videos from the cloud that are not already stored locally on the device. Now, as spotted by a reader of the outlet, Google has seemingly begun rolling out this feature.

How Bulk Download Works in Google Photos for Android

This new bulk download feature allows users to download multiple photos or videos that are synced in Google Photos but not currently stored on their device. On our test devices, it’s available on both the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy A54, so it’s unclear exactly when it was added for some users.

Previously, when bulk download wasn’t available, selecting multiple photos and videos would not display the Download button. Now, the button remains visible. Once you’ve chosen the media and tap “Download,” a data usage warning may pop up for metered Wi-Fi connections. After confirming, the files download in the background, and you can see an animated progress indicator on each photo or video.

If you have the feature on your device, here’s how to use it:

  1. Open Google Photos.
  2. Select the desired photos or videos.
  3. Tap Download.
  4. Confirm to continue downloading if prompted.
Using Google Photosu0027 bulk or multiple photos and videos downloads
Select multiple photos or videos in Google Photos.
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Using Google Photosu0027 bulk or multiple photos and videos downloads
Tap the Download button to begin bulk download.
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Using Google Photosu0027 bulk or multiple photos and videos downloads
Tap Continue to confirm bulk download in Google Photos.
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Alternatively, files already present in the local storage will be automatically skipped, even if included in the selection. This makes the process more convenient, as you won’t need to individually deselect or manually check which items are already available offline.

Interestingly, Google Photos for iOS already allows downloading of cloud photos or videos with shared accounts, although the steps might differ slightly.

Are you using Google Photos as your default gallery and photo cloud storage app? What are your thoughts on the addition of bulk download? Please let us know down in the comments.

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