Aura, a digital photo frame manufacturer, has announced that its products will continue to auto-sync with Google Photos, despite earlier reports suggesting the feature would be discontinued. The company confirmed the news to The Verge, stating that it is working with Google to maintain the auto-add feature for Google Photos on Aura frames.

The reversal comes after Aura initially announced that the auto-sync feature would stop working this month due to changes Google is making to its Photos API. The API change, set to take effect on March 31st, will prevent apps from accessing entire photo libraries, prompting concerns that digital photo frames would no longer be able to auto-sync with Google Photos.

According to Aura, the collaboration with Google will ensure that users can continue to enjoy seamless syncing of their Google Photo albums with their Aura frames. The company spokesperson, Jenisse Curry, assured that syncing will continue as usual, and owners of Aura frames won't need to take any additional action. However, Curry noted that the company will share additional information when ready.

The auto-sync feature is a key selling point for Aura's cloud-connected frames, which allow users to share photos with others and view them on the frame. The feature is particularly useful for gifting frames to family members or friends, enabling them to automatically receive new photos from shared Google Photo albums.

Google's decision to update its Photos API is aimed at improving user privacy, with the company stating that it has APIs specifically designed for digital photo frames and a program to help partners update their products. It remains to be seen whether other digital photo frame manufacturers, such as Cozyla, will also be able to continue supporting auto-sync with Google Photos.

The news will come as a relief to Aura frame owners who were concerned about losing the auto-sync feature. The company's ability to work with Google to find a solution demonstrates its commitment to providing a seamless user experience and maintaining the value proposition of its products.

As the tech industry continues to evolve, collaborations like this one between Aura and Google highlight the importance of cooperation in driving innovation and improving user experiences. With the Google Photos API change set to take effect soon, it will be interesting to see how other companies adapt and respond to the new landscape.