– Google Photos is upgrading its editing features, including the AI-powered Magic Editor, for all users for free
– The editing tools will start rolling out on May 15, with some hardware device requirements for use
– Magic Editor allows for complex photo edits with generative AI, and other features like Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, and Portrait Light will be available to all Google Photos users
Google Photos is introducing an AI upgrade that will bring enhanced editing features to all users for free, including the Magic Editor, Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, Portrait Light, and more. Previously limited to Pixel devices and paid subscribers, these tools will now be accessible to more people without cost. The expansion aims to make Google’s AI photo editing features more widely available in a competitive market flooded with similar tools.
However, there are some limitations to this update. The new editing features will start rolling out on May 15 and may take weeks to reach all Google Photos users. Additionally, there are hardware requirements for using the tools, such as specific ChromeOS and mobile device specifications. Pixel tablets will now be supported with the update as well.
The most notable feature in this upgrade is the Magic Editor, which uses generative AI to perform complex photo edits like filling in gaps, repositioning subjects, and adjusting backgrounds. This tool was previously exclusive to Pixel devices but will now be available on iOS and Android devices with limits on the number of saves per month unless users have a Premium Google One plan.
Other editing tools included in this upgrade are Magic Eraser, Sky suggestions, Color pop, HDR effect, Portrait Blur, Cinematic Photos, Styles in the Collage Editor, and Video Effects. Some features, like Best Take, which merges photos to create a single best shot, will remain exclusive to Pixel 8 and 8 Pro users. The expansion of these features aims to make Google Photos a more competitive and accessible platform for photo editing.