Google shuts down AI-based Photos printing service

The service was available for a monthly fee of $7.99 to US users. The service is likely to return in new avatar more features in the near future.

FILE PHOTO: The logo of Google is seen in Davos, Switzerland Januar 20, 2020. Picture taken January 20, 2020. REUTERS/Arnd Wiegmann/File Photo (REUTERS)

Google is shutting down its automated Photos printing service on June 30 in less than five months of its launch. Right now, it is not clear why Google is ending the service.

“Thank you for your invaluable feedback these last several months. You have provided us with a lot of helpful information about how we can evolve this feature, which we hope to make more widely available. Please keep your eyes open for future updates,” said Google's note to subscribers.

Google's AI-guided programme allowed the algorithms to pick the best photos from Google Photos' library. Available for a monthly fee of $7.99 ( ₹3,000 approximately), it provided up to 10 4x6 prints of the photos. The algorithm picked photos from the last 30 days in your library.

While the AI did most of the heavy-duty, Google also allowed users to personalise it by giving options such as “people and pets” and “landscapes” for as preferences. Users also had the option to personalise the photos before printing them.

Google's Photos print service was believed to be part of its efforts to help users embrace “digital wellbeing.” Apart from physical photos printing service, Google has also experimented with Paper Phone, which is a paper with key contacts, maps, and meeting details printed. 

Other experiments include Desert Island, Unlock Clock, and Morph among others.