Apple’s new AI photo editing tools mostly work, for better and worse
What it does
Apple has introduced native AI-powered photo editing features in iOS 17, bringing real AI tools to the iPhone’s built-in Photos app for the first time. These tools let users clean up, reframe, and extend images using AI without needing third-party apps. The AI can remove unwanted objects, fill in gaps when expanding backgrounds, and adjust compositions by intelligently reframing photos. While the capabilities are less advanced than those found on some competitors like Google Pixel phones, they mark a significant step for iPhone photo editing.
Why it matters
Introducing AI editing directly into the native Photos app shifts photo manipulation power from specialized apps to the iPhone’s default tools. For casual users and some pros, this lowers the barrier to improving images quickly and natively. It also reduces reliance on third-party software, creating pressure for other platforms to integrate similar AI editing functions. However, because the tools are still basic, the editing may not always meet professional-grade expectations and sometimes leads to imperfect results. This signals Apple is betting on convenience and accessibility over raw AI editing power—at least for now.
Who it is for
The new AI photo editing suits iPhone users who want to fix common image issues on the go without jumping between apps. Social media creators, small businesses, and casual photographers can now clean up backgrounds or tweak framing natively, saving time and steps in their workflows. For professional photographers or image editors, these features will likely serve as quick fixes rather than full replacements for dedicated software.
The catch
These AI tools are still limited compared to purpose-built AI editors. Edits can produce artifacts or unnatural-looking fills, especially on complex backgrounds or detailed hands. Apple’s conservative approach avoids potential AI missteps but also means the tools won’t satisfy users needing precise control or advanced retouching. The AI edits can sometimes force users into compromises on quality versus speed and convenience.
What to watch next
Watch for how Apple expands these AI editing features over future iOS updates, potentially improving accuracy and adding editing options. Competitors will likely accelerate their native AI tools to keep pace, sparking ongoing pressure on mobile platforms to bake AI deeper into everyday apps. Tracking user feedback will show whether Apple leans toward enhancing power users’ demands or prioritizing accessibility and simplicity for the mass market.
AI Quick Briefs Editorial Desk
