You can lock your photos using the "Locked Folder" feature within the Google Photos app. Here's how to do it:
- Open Google Photos: Launch the Google Photos app on your Android device.
- Navigate to Photos: Tap on the "Photos" tab, typically located at the bottom.
- Select Photos: Select the photos and videos you want to move to the Locked Folder. Long-press on a photo to enter selection mode, then tap on the other photos you wish to include.
- Open the Menu: At the top right, tap on the "More" icon (usually represented by three vertical dots).
- Move to Locked Folder: In the menu that appears, select "Move to Locked Folder."
- Confirm Move: Tap "Move" to confirm. You may be prompted to authenticate using your device's screen lock (PIN, pattern, password, or fingerprint).
Important Considerations:
- Locked Folder is device-specific: Photos in the Locked Folder are stored locally on your device. If you uninstall the Google Photos app, clear the app's data, or factory reset your device without backing up the Locked Folder, you'll lose those photos.
- Cloud Backup: Photos in the Locked Folder are not backed up to Google Photos' cloud storage unless you manually move them out of the Locked Folder and allow them to sync.
- Accessing the Locked Folder: To view your locked photos, go to the "Library" tab in Google Photos, then tap "Utilities," and finally select "Locked Folder." You'll need to authenticate using your device's screen lock each time you access it.
- Moving Photos Out: You can move photos out of the Locked Folder by selecting them, tapping the "More" icon, and choosing "Move out of Locked Folder." They will then be available in your regular Google Photos library.
- Alternative App Considerations: Be aware that other photo management apps may have their own methods for securing photos, such as password protection or encryption. The above instructions apply specifically to Google Photos' "Locked Folder" feature.
