How to use the Pixel Screenshots app on the Google Pixel 9

Joe Maring / Digital Trends

Google’s Pixel 9 lineup this year includes four devices: Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. All these devices feature a fresh new look and powerful specs such as the Tensor G4 chip and up to 16GB of RAM, a first for the Pixel series as a whole.

While the hardware is impressive, Google is placing a greater emphasis on the software that powers these devices, particularly the AI capabilities. The Pixel 9 line introduces a variety of new AI tools, including Pixel Studio, Add Me, Gemini Live, and Pixel Screenshots.

If you’re someone who dislikes having a cluttered photo gallery full of screenshots, the Pixel Screenshots app is a game-changer. Here’s how it works.

How the Pixel Screenshots app works

The Pixel Screenshots app leverages the on-device Gemini Nano with Multimodality to summarize and index all your screenshots for easy searchability.

With the Pixel Screenshots app, any screenshot you capture on your Pixel 9 will be stored in the app instead of Google Photos by default. However, you must first opt-in to the Pixel Screenshots app. Make sure to launch the app first before taking any screenshots to begin using its features.

If you need a refresher on how to take a screenshot on the Pixel 9, simply press the power and volume down buttons simultaneously.

Currently, the Pixel Screenshots app is only available on the Pixel 9 lineup, including the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. It is unclear if older Pixel devices will receive this feature.

How to search for screenshots in the Screenshots app

1. Launch the Screenshots app on your Pixel 9 device.
2. Select the Search bar at the bottom of the app.
3. Type in your search query to see real-time results. Alternatively, use the Microphone to dictate your query.

How to add new photos and import old screenshots to the Screenshots app

1. Launch the Screenshots app on your Pixel 9 device.
2. Select the Plus (+) button in the bottom-right corner.
3. Choose Camera to snap a new photo or Gallery to import old screenshots from Google Photos.
4. Select your photo or screenshot to add it.

How to create collections in the Screenshots app

1. Launch the Screenshots app on your Pixel 9 device.
2. Select the Plus (+) button under Collections to create a new collection.
3. Name your collection and add existing screenshots to it if desired.
4. Save your collection by selecting the Checkmark button.

How to set a reminder for a screenshot in the Screenshots app

1. Launch the Screenshots app on your Pixel 9 device.
2. Select a screenshot to view it.
3. Tap the Bell button to set a reminder for that screenshot.
4. Choose the time for the reminder.

How to mark up and add a note on a screenshot in the Screenshots app

1. Launch the Screenshots app on your Pixel 9 device.
2. Select a screenshot to view it.
3. Tap the Pencil button to mark up the screenshot or add a note.
4. Save your changes and notes accordingly.

Christine Romero-Chan / Digital Trends