Google Photos’ Locked Folder is Now Coming to Non-Pixel Smartphones

Last Updated on December 6, 2021 by Anu Joy

Google Photos’ Locked Folder Feature is now rolling out to all devices running Android 6 and above. Initially, this feature, which lets you keep sensitive images from showing up in your main photo library, was exclusive to Pixel phones.

Earlier this year in May, Google had announced the Locked Folder feature for its own Pixel phones only. It allows you to keep your sensitive photos away from prying eyes, by putting them in in a folder protected by your device screen lock. It finally arrived to Pixel smartphones in June.

Google showcases the feature with an innocent example—parents trying to hide photos of a newly purchased pup from their kids. But we all know that we have a collection of “tasteful nudes” that need to be kept under lock and key.

In October, the search giant had assured non-Pixel Android users that the Locked folder feature would soon roll out to their devices too. It also promised its rollout for iOS users early next year, so Apple users need not feel left behind. It appears that Google has kept its promise for Android users, with 9to5Google reporting the arrival of the feature on some Samsung, OnePlus, and Oppo devices.  

It is to be noted that anyone who has access to your screen lock can also unlock the Locked folder. Furthermore, you will not be able to move pictures and videos in that folder with cable or cloud data transfers. Additionally, clearing your Photos app data or uninstalling the app will cause you to lose all your photos in the Locked Folder. One workaround is to remove them from the folder and move it to another folder for backup.

How to Set Up and Use Locked Folder

Google will prompt you to set up Locked Folder, the first time you try to move your items there. All you have to do is navigate to Library > Utilities > Locked Folder and tap Set up Locked Folder. Then, follow the on-screen instructions to complete your setup. You can easily move your secret photos and videos to the Locked Folder, or even save directly from your camera.

What do you think of this new feature? Let us know in the comments below.