Samsung is set to bring Google Photos directly to its smart TVs in 2026, marking a major step in how users experience their personal photo and video libraries on the big screen. This new integration eliminates the need for casting from a phone or tablet, allowing Samsung TV owners to browse and relive memories natively.
Native Google Photos Experience
For the first time, Samsung TVs will offer a true native Google Photos app, letting users sign in to their accounts and access their entire photo library. This includes albums, shared content, and even curated collections, all optimized for large-screen viewing. Instead of relying on a mobile device to display slideshows, Samsung TV owners can enjoy a seamless, immersive experience directly from the TV.
Memories Feature: Curated Highlights
The rollout will initially feature Google Photos Memories, which automatically groups photos and videos based on people, locations, and special moments. This smart organization makes it easy to revisit trips, celebrations, or everyday snapshots. Users will see their most meaningful memories presented in dynamic slideshows, enhancing the storytelling aspect of their photo collections.
AI-Powered Tools Coming Later
Later in 2026, Samsung plans to add AI-driven features through Google Photos on its TVs. These tools will include customizable templates, enhanced editing, and creative options powered by advanced AI models. Users will be able to remix photos, apply smart effects, and even generate themed albums, all without leaving the TV interface.
Seamless Integration with Samsung Ecosystem
This integration also ties into Samsung’s Vision AI Companion, which enhances the TV experience by intelligently surfacing photos at appropriate times through features like Daily+ and Daily Board. Once signed in, users can enjoy personalized displays of memories throughout the day, transforming their living rooms into a dynamic digital gallery.
Benefits for Users
- No More Casting: Users can view and manage their Google Photos library directly on the TV.
- Optimized for Big Screen: Images and videos are automatically adjusted for large-screen displays.
- Exclusive Early Access: Samsung TVs launching in 2026 will get the integration first, with older models receiving updates later.
- Immersive Viewing: Dynamic slideshows and AI-powered curation make reliving memories more engaging than ever.
The Bigger Picture
Until now, TVs have relied on casting or third-party apps to show Google Photos. By bringing the service natively to Samsung devices, the company is redefining how smart TVs function, not just as entertainment hubs but also as personal memory displays. This move positions Samsung at the forefront of blending hardware and cloud services for immersive home experiences.
Availability and Timeline
The feature is slated for early 2026, with Google Photos Memories available immediately and AI-powered creative tools arriving later in the year. Initial exclusivity will last about six months, after which similar integrations may appear on other TV brands.
Samsung’s integration promises a new way to enjoy personal content, making TVs an active part of everyday digital life rather than just a passive screen for movies or shows.
