Google Photos is receiving a significant update that introduces enhanced AI features, enabling users to edit their images effortlessly, without needing advanced skills or professional software. The revamped Photos editor consolidates various AI editing tools—including two Magic Editor features powered by generative AI, which were previously exclusive to Pixel devices—into a single interface, along with insightful suggestions on which tools to utilize.
With this latest update, Google Photos is broadening the reach of its AI-driven automatic framing and text-to-image Reimagine features that first launched with the Pixel 9. The Auto Frame tool, positioned at the top left of the newly designed editor, proposes various compositions to either crop or expand images, using generative AI to seamlessly fill any gaps. The Reimagine feature takes it a step further, granting users the ability to add elements to their photos simply by describing them—though the outcomes can sometimes be unexpected.
The most obvious alteration is the user interface (UI), which transforms the previous dual-layered editor menu into a single row with three thumbnail buttons: options to Enhance and access Dynamic editing, along with a new AI Enhance feature. When users select AI Enhance, they receive three automatic edits that blend multiple AI effects, such as image sharpening and object removal, enabling users to pick their favorite outcome.
Additionally, users can pinpoint specific areas of an image to select an object and perform focused edits. A popup tool menu will appear, recommending optimal effects like repositioning the object, blurring the background, or modifying the lighting. This enhancement not only aids users in making more refined edits but also streamlines the process of locating the appropriate tool, eliminating the need to sift through various tabs and menus.
According to Google, all these features will begin rolling out globally to Android devices next month, with iOS support expected “later this year.” The Verge has reached out to Google for details on which Android devices will support these features but has not yet received a response.
Another exciting feature now being rolled out in Google Photos allows users to share albums from their library through a generated QR code. This enables others to easily view or contribute photos to the album by scanning the code, providing a hassle-free alternative for sharing with large groups, such as wedding guests or event participants.
