Enhance Image Handling: Unsplash Embeds, Direct File Creation, and Bulk Upload

[icarus-00]

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Clear and concise description of the problem

Currently, image embedding and file management in Anytype are somewhat restrictive compared to the flexibility offered when creating pages or notes. This issue proposes three enhancements to improve the overall image-handling experience:

1. Embedding Images from Unsplash – While users can set cover images using Unsplash, there is no option to embed Unsplash images directly within a document. This feature would be a great addition for users who occasionally incorporate aesthetic images in their personal documents.

2. Creating Images and Files as Objects – Unlike pages and notes, images and files cannot be created as standalone objects in collections or sets. Instead, they must be uploaded within an existing page or note to be reused elsewhere. Introducing a way to create images and files as independent objects would improve usability and organization.

3. Bulk Image Upload – Currently, users must upload images one by one within a page or note. Enabling bulk image uploads (e.g., by dragging and dropping multiple images) would streamline the workflow and make managing media more efficient.

Suggested solution

1. Unsplash Integration for Embedded Images
   Currently, when adding an image, users can either upload a file or embed a link. This could be expanded by reimplementing the existing Unsplash cover image feature as a third option for embedding images. This way, users can easily select and insert Unsplash images directly into their documents without needing external downloads.

   

2. Ability to Create Standalone Image and File Objects
   Unlike pages, images and files cannot be created as independent objects within sets (e.g., image sets, file sets, or the "All Media" view). Adding a "New Object" option for images and files would allow users to create placeholders for media, making it easier to structure and reuse content. Additionally, this could enable the creation of templates with predefined height and width specifications for better consistency.

   

3. Bulk Image Upload with Drag-and-Drop Support
   A common way to streamline bulk uploads is through drag-and-drop functionality. Implementing a dedicated popup that appears when dragging files into the Anytype window would provide an intuitive way to handle multiple images or files at once.

   

These enhancements would make working with images and files in Anytype more efficient, flexible, and user-friendly.

Alternative

Alternative Solution for Unsplash Integration:

Instead of directly implementing Unsplash support, a plugin system similar to Obsidian could offer a more flexible approach. This would allow third-party integrations for various image sources, reducing the need to maintain multiple vendor APIs. A built-in plugin framework could support:

• Unsplash and similar image providers without requiring direct API handling.
• Personal cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, etc.) for embedding personal media.
• External image hosting services (e.g., Imgur, Flickr, or self-hosted solutions) for users who manage their own image libraries.

Additional context

No response