Looks like Google isn’t the only one neglecting the gallery app that’s in AOSP. Google is focusing on the Google+ Photos app more than anything. Even though, the Nexus 5 comes with both apps pre-installed. Today, CyanogenMod announced their own Gallery app, GalleryNext. They say it’s their answer to the Gallery app that is severely lacking. CyanogenMod released the app on the Play Store today, in beta form.
GalleryNext allows you to view all of your pictures in one centralized location. There’s also cloud services integration for Flickr Picasa/Google+, Facebook and Dropbox. There’s also moments support, which is an automatic grouping and classification of media based on metadata. As well as video playback support, Gif support, deduplication in ‘All’ view, and much more. CyanogenMod also has a few features on their roadmap like adding KitKat’s immersive UI and editor support.
You may remember me saying earlier in this post that this is a beta app, well it is. Which means you’ll need to join the Google+ community first and then opt in to join the beta, then download the app. It sounds rather intense, but it’s just like joining any other beta app like Snapchat, Dashclock, etc. Seeing as CyanogenMod is a big supporter of Google+, I’m not surprised they used Google+ instead of Google Groups to host the beta testing group. And it’s still much easier than downloading an apk and sideloading it, right? Plus there’s a place for feedback.
Taking a quick look at the new app, it actually looks really nice. And I can’t wait to see what else the folks at CyanogenMod have planned for the GalleryNext app. It should be compatible with most devices out there. If you go ahead and join the beta community, and download the app, be sure to let us know what you think about it in the comments below.