GIMP Version: 2.6.11
Operating System: Windows
OS Version: XP - SP3
GIMP Experience: Beginner Level

List any relevant plug-ins or scripts:
All

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What is the basic usage of Layer groups, to this date?
All that one can do is easily apply combined layer modes within a click. However, what would be expected(apply plug-in to all layers of a group) is not implemented.

Are there any plans to implement such feature?

i cant answer your question but i think layergroups are very useful the moment you have tons of layers in your work

also, as you already stated, a layergroup's mode, is for the whole group, but at the same time you can have individual modes inside the group
that feature hasnt been much explored yet, it seems

Would be interesting when works with a lot number of layers.
In the fact i don't like how it works in layers effects. When i use layers effects return to 2.6.12.

You'll see their usefulness when you have an image file with >100 layers in it.

What dd said.
Let's say you're gimping a landscape, you would organize your layers possibly by distance (grouping layers used for background stuffs, those used for foreground stuffs etc.) or by objects (you'd want to affect your 10 layers of rocks but not your 5 layers of grass) or by ... you name your needs.

This is a feature I wanted for gimp since I saw its usage in PS.

Must be honest I forget they are there and as yet haven't really utilized this feature.

Have yet to use them myself. I'm a gonzo editor so rarely work with more then 5 layers at a time since my flow's very lossy. lol

When you have true node editing, call me. Layer groups are all but useless to me.

You can't use masks on a layer group but you can apply modes, plugins, scripts, etc., to your layer group or individually to any member of the group. When you make a change to the layer group the results are applied as a collective property. When you split up the group you change the groups collective properties and each member starts a solo career.
That should be expected.

You can also link layers within a group to apply properties selectively.

Hmm... I wonder what version of GIMP you are using, I am using Photocomix Lab.

The message:



Appears, after the Filters->Distort->Apply lens plug-in is called.

I also tried to stroke it with the brush tool, to no avail. Error message: