Samsung Electronics is expanding what its AI powered TVs can do by teaming up with Google to integrate Google Photos directly into upcoming television models. The idea is fairly simple on the surface but quite meaningful in daily use. Instead of photos living quietly on phones or tablets, they move to the biggest screen in the house, without cables, memory cards, or awkward screen mirroring setups.
Starting in early 2026, users with compatible Samsung AI TVs will be able to sign in with their Google Account and instantly access their backed up photos and videos from the cloud. Nothing needs to be transferred manually. Once logged in, the TV becomes an extension of the photo library people already use on their phones, which I think lowers the barrier enough that families might actually use it regularly.
A notable part of this collaboration is a six month exclusivity window. During this time, Samsung TVs will be the only ones to offer a special Google Photos TV experience built around a feature called “Memories.” This interface automatically organizes photos by people, places, or events and presents them as curated slideshows designed for relaxed, living room viewing rather than quick scrolling.
Key Takeaways
- Release Timeline: Features are expected to start rolling out in March 2026 for new Samsung AI TV models, with select existing TVs receiving the update later through operating system upgrades.
- Exclusive Window: Samsung will have exclusive access to the Google Photos “Memories” TV interface for the first six months after launch.
- AI Tools: Upcoming features include “Create with AI,” which uses Google DeepMind technology to turn still photos into short video clips.
- Daily Integration: Photos can appear in Samsung’s Daily+ and Daily Board modes, functioning as ambient content when the TV is not actively being watched.
- Simple Setup: All that is required is a Google Account with active photo backups enabled.
How Google Photos Works on Samsung TVs
The partnership aims to make digital photo albums feel like a natural part of the home rather than something locked behind a phone screen. Right now, many people either glance at photos on small displays or rely on screen mirroring, which can be inconsistent or laggy. This native Google Photos app is designed to feel smoother and more intentional.
The “Memories” feature, launching in March 2026, works almost like a digital storyteller. It uses Google’s existing photo organization technology to group images from holidays, family gatherings, or everyday moments into slideshows that actually make sense when viewed together. Instead of random photos flashing by, the experience feels more cohesive, maybe even a bit nostalgic.
In countries like India, where the TV often acts as a shared family space, this update has a particular relevance. Everyone in the room can sit together and view high resolution versions of phone photos without passing a device around. The system also integrates with Samsung’s Vision AI Companion, which adjusts how and when photos appear based on lighting conditions or the time of day. It is subtle, but it helps the feature feel less intrusive and more thoughtful.
AI Features and Creative Tools
Later in 2026, Samsung and Google plan to roll out more creative options under a feature called “Create with AI.” This tool relies on the Nano Banana model from Google DeepMind. Users can select a still image and use a “Photo to Video” option to generate a short animated clip. It is not meant to replace video recording, but rather to add a bit of life to existing memories.
There is also a “Remix” feature that lets users change the artistic style of a photo. This could mean turning a standard picture into something more painterly or stylized. While not everyone will use this daily, it does add a creative layer that feels more playful than practical, which is not necessarily a bad thing.
Another planned feature is “Personalized Results.” This allows users to search their photo library using natural terms. Asking for photos from a Paris trip or a hiking weekend should bring up relevant images without endless scrolling. For people with years of backed up photos, this could quietly become one of the most useful additions.
Compatibility and Availability
Google Photos integration is currently planned for Samsung TV models launching in 2026. Samsung has also stated that some existing TVs will receive these features through future operating system updates, though availability will depend on the hardware capabilities of each model. In other words, not every older TV is guaranteed to get everything.
To use the service, users need to make sure photo backups are enabled in the Google Photos mobile app. The TV streams images directly from the cloud rather than storing them locally, which keeps things simple but does rely on a stable internet connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which Samsung TVs will get Google Photos?
A1: The features will launch on 2026 Samsung AI TV models. Older models may receive updates later through Samsung’s OS update cycle, provided they meet the required hardware specifications.
Q2: Is there a cost to use Google Photos on Samsung TVs?
A2: There is no separate fee for using the app on the TV. However, users need a Google Account. If storage exceeds Google’s free 15GB limit, a Google One subscription may be required.
Q3: Can I edit my photos on the TV?
Yes. The “Create with AI” tools launching in late 2026 will allow basic edits such as changing art styles or converting still photos into short video clips.
Q3: Do I need a Samsung phone to use this feature?
No. As long as photos are backed up to a Google Account, they can be accessed on the TV from either an Android phone or an iPhone.
Q4: Can I hide certain photos from appearing on the TV?
Yes. The TV follows your Google Photos account settings. Photos archived or placed in a Locked Folder on the mobile app will not appear in the general TV gallery.
