Google Launches 'Inspirational' Images Tab - Pinterest Competitor

Google Launches Dedicated Images Tab in Mobile App

A new feature is being integrated into Google’s mobile application, potentially positioning it as a competitor to Pinterest for users seeking visual inspiration. This addition takes the form of a specialized images tab.

The company revealed on Wednesday the introduction of a new “Images” icon within the Google Search app, designed for both iOS and Android platforms. This icon will present users with images tailored to their individual interests.

Personalized Visual Discovery

Google states that the images displayed will be refreshed on a daily basis. The feature aims to provide a platform for users to organize their creative concepts and locate visual ideas.

These ideas could relate to various activities, such as trip planning, event hosting, home decorating, or exploring new fashion trends.

Competition in the Visual Space

The described use cases closely mirror the primary motivations behind users’ engagement with Pinterest and other social media platforms like Instagram.

Within Google’s new tab, users have the ability to explore images, conduct further image searches, and store preferred images within personalized collections.

Strategic Implications for Google

This enhancement is likely intended to boost user engagement with the Google app, particularly in light of increasing competition from AI-driven companies impacting its search and advertising revenue.

Importantly, the feature establishes a new space within the widely-used Search app where Google can potentially integrate advertising.

Testing of an ads carousel within the image tab on mobile devices has already been observed, suggesting the likely appearance of advertisements within this new section.

Building on Previous Features

This isn’t Google’s initial foray into dedicated features for saving images and bookmarks. The company previously launched a Collections feature in 2018.

This earlier feature was subsequently enhanced with AI capabilities to suggest additional items for users to save to their collections. However, Collections encompassed more than just images, including websites, products, and map locations.

Rollout and Availability

Google has announced that the new images tab will be gradually rolled out over the coming weeks on both iOS and Android devices within the U.S.

Currently, no specific timeline has been provided for a global launch of the feature.