Google Photos Adds Toggle to Turn Off Memories Music
Users can now switch off background music that Google Photos adds to Memories and the End of Year Recap.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Scrapbooking
Google confirmed a new setting that lets users disable background music Google Photos adds to Memories. The toggle works across all Google Photos platforms and is live now in the latest version of the app.
Why it matters
The change gives users direct control over audio in their Memories slideshows, which Google says it made in response to user feedback. Users who prefer silent or self-selected soundtracks can now opt out.
The toggle is found under Settings, then Memory preferences, and is labeled Background music. Original audio embedded in video clips within Memories continues to play even when the setting is switched off.
The players
Google Photos
Google Photos is Google's cloud-based photo and video storage and organization service, which automatically compiles photos into Memories slideshows with background music.
The details
Users open the Google Photos app, go to Settings, and tap the Music toggle under Memories via Memory preferences to switch Background music off. When disabled, extra music tracks no longer play during Memories, though original video audio still plays.
Timeline
Google's support page confirmation of the new music toggle was reported on November 4, 2026.
Roadmap
The new toggle builds on Google Photos' Memories feature, which automatically assembles photos and videos into themed slideshows with added music. It gives users a way to customize that automated output rather than accepting it as a fixed default.
Users who find the automatic soundtrack distracting can now turn it off in their Memories settings without losing the slideshow itself. Original audio from video clips will continue to play regardless of this setting.
The takeaway
If you use Memories in Google Photos and prefer silent slideshows, open Settings, go to Memory preferences, and switch Background music off to keep your photos without the added soundtrack.
Further reading
Explore more ideas for preserving memories in our Scrapbooking section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Android Headlines.
