How to make creative collages on Android phones and tablets
Your default photo management app has an in-built collage maker. Google Photos has one, and so does Samsung Gallery. However, Photos fits general use better as it supports many Android devices across different manufacturers. Gallery is limited to Galaxy devices so if you don’t own a smartphone in Samsung’s ecosystem, you can’t use it.
You may use third-party apps from the Google Play Store when you don’t have these apps, or want more features. But it’s always best to use your phone’s native solutions for security reasons. Some of the apps may contain malware that can steal your data or harm your device.
Here’s how to use Google Photos and Samsung Gallery to make collages.
Google Photos collages
- Open the Google Photos app and go to Library > Utilities. Then scroll down and tap Collage.
2. Select up to six images and tap Create in the top right corner.
3. Choose a layout from the options below. Premium layouts will have the number one symbol on them. You’ll need a Google One subscription to use them. Tap Save in the bottom right corner when you’re done.
4. Tap edit after creating your collage to apply filters, texts, adjustments, and more.
Samsung Gallery collages
- Open the Samsung Gallery app. Then select up to six images. Tap Create in the bottom left corner. Then select Collage.
2. Use the buttons at the bottom of your screen to choose a layout, aspect ratio, and border color. Then tap Save in the top right corner.
3. Locate the saved collage in the Gallery app and open it. Then tap the pen icon to edit it with filters and more tools.
Third-party app collages
A quick search on the Google Play Store will reveal scores of apps for collage creation. They may also contain templates to guide you — and unfortunately, excessive ads. Most of them are free to use, providing access to basic features.
If you want more out of the apps, you’ll pay a one-time or subscription-based fee. I’ve used Canva, Layout from Instagram, and PicsArt to make collages in the past. Feel free to explore other apps and discover cool features.
Don’t stop at collage creation
Among the best Android apps, you’ll find photo editing apps packed with many elements for improving picture quality and adding effects. If you own a phone from the Google Pixel 8 or Samsung Galaxy S24 series, you can access in-built features based on artificial intelligence (AI).
Combined, these elements add more life to your shots, and you can share them directly from your preferred app. From PicsArt, Adobe Lightroom, and Snapseed, you’ll have more than enough tools to test your editing skills.
