Google Photos Locked Folder explained

Locked Folder is a private space inside Google Photos. It is free, quick to set up, and good at one job: keeping chosen photos and videos out of your grid and behind your screen lock. Most questions about it come down to backup and to who knows your screen lock. Here they are, one at a time.

How do I set it up?

Open Google Photos and tap Collections.
Under Utilities, tap Locked Folder, then set it up with your screen lock.
To move photos in, select them in your library, tap More, then Move to Locked Folder.

Google moves menus around. If you cannot find it, type "Locked Folder" into the search bar inside Google Photos. On some Pixel phones, the Camera app can save straight into Locked Folder; look for the folder option in the camera's settings.

What does it actually hide?

Photos in Locked Folder leave your main grid, search, Memories and any albums they were in. Other apps cannot reach them through the shared photo library. Screenshots and screen recording are blocked inside the folder in most cases.

Is it backed up?

This is the part that surprises people. For a long time, Locked Folder items stayed on the device only and were deleted if you uninstalled Google Photos, cleared its data, or reset the phone. Google has since added an option to back up Locked Folder on some accounts. Open Locked Folder and check its settings to see which applies to you.

Both choices have a cost. Backup off means a lost or reset phone takes the photos with it. Backup on means a copy lives in your Google account. Decide which risk you would rather carry.

Can I give it its own PIN?

Not usually. It uses your phone's screen lock, so anyone who knows your PIN or pattern can open it. If that is your worry, Samsung Secure Folder or Private space can use a separate lock, and so can a separate vault app. Changing your screen lock is the simplest fix of all.

What gets left behind?

Shared albums and partner sharing. Anyone who already had access may have seen or saved the photo.
Messaging apps, which keep their own copies of media.
Other gallery apps. Samsung phones often have Samsung Gallery as well as Google Photos, and Locked Folder only shows in Google Photos.
Trash, if you deleted a copy rather than moving it.

What about a new phone?

If backup is off, Locked Folder does not come with you. Before switching or resetting, move items out to somewhere safe, or turn on backup if your account offers it, and check the new phone before wiping the old one.

Does it work on iPhone?

Google Photos on iPhone has offered Locked Folder on some accounts, using Face ID or your passcode. Availability varies.