Toggle Grid and Collections in iOS 18 Photos

The redesigned Photos app in iOS 18 replaces traditional bottom navigation tabs with a unified, single-screen interface. This guide explains how to seamlessly toggle between the full photo grid view and your curated collections using intuitive vertical swipe gestures and built-in navigation controls.

The Unified Layout

In iOS 18, the main screen is divided into two primary zones: your photo library grid sits at the top, while curated collections (such as Recent Days, People, Trips, and Albums) live directly underneath it. Instead of switching tabs, you transition between these two experiences entirely through vertical scrolling.

Expanding the Full Photo Grid

To view your complete photo library in full screen:

1. Tap anywhere on the photo grid at the top of the screen, or swipe up on the grid.
2. The grid will expand to fill the entire display, hiding the curated collections beneath.
3. While in this expanded view, use the bottom navigation buttons to switch between Years, Months, and All to adjust your zoom level and chronological grouping.

Returning to Curated Collections

To leave the full-screen grid and view your collections:

1. Swipe down from the top or middle of the expanded grid.
2. The grid will shrink back to the upper half of the screen, revealing your curated collections below.
3. Scroll down further to browse automatically organized categories, including Recent Days, Trips, People & Pets, and Pinned Collections.

Customizing Collection Access

You can adjust how collections appear below the grid to streamline navigation:

1. Scroll to the very bottom of the main Photos screen.
2. Tap Customize & Reorder.
3. Uncheck collections you do not use or drag the handles to move your most frequently visited albums directly below the primary grid.