In the latest iOS 18.1 developer beta, Apple has introduced an AI-powered image-editing tool called “Clean Up,” designed to help users remove unwanted objects from their photos. This new feature is currently available exclusively on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, bringing a powerful yet easy-to-use photo editing experience to these devices.
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A New Contender in AI Image Editing
The Clean Up tool works similarly to Google’s Magic Eraser, which is available through the Google Photos app on Android and iOS. However, Apple’s version is integrated directly into the Photos app, allowing for a seamless editing experience. Users can simply select an object using smart detection and remove it with just one tap. For more precise control, users can draw a circle or brush over the unwanted objects they wish to delete.
What sets Clean Up apart is its ability to use AI to intelligently fill in the background after an object is removed, ensuring that the photo appears unedited. This includes accurately generating shadows and reflections, which enhances the realism of the edited image.
Read Also: OnePlus new AI Eraser image editing feature announced
Exclusivity and Future Availability
Currently, the Clean Up feature is limited to the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max running the iOS 18.1 developer beta. Other iPhone models, even those on the latest developer beta, do not yet have access to this tool. It remains unclear whether Apple will extend this feature to other devices with the official release of iOS 18.1.
The timing of this feature’s introduction is interesting, as it comes just days before Apple’s much-anticipated “It’s Glowtime” event, where the company is expected to unveil the iPhone 16 series along with other new products. This strategic release could indicate Apple’s intent to showcase its advancements in AI and software capabilities as a highlight of its upcoming product announcements.
A Step Forward in AI-Driven Photography
Apple has been gradually rolling out various AI-powered features under the banner of Apple Intelligence since the first iOS 18.1 developer beta. These include writing tools, natural language search in Photos, transcription services, and smart replies in Mail. The addition of Clean Up further solidifies Apple’s commitment to integrating AI deeply into its ecosystem.
Read Also: How to use the AI Eraser tool on Oppo smartphones
Despite the obvious benefits of such features, there’s a growing debate over the increasing reliance on AI in everyday tasks like photo editing. While AI tools like Clean Up can enhance user experience by simplifying complex tasks, there’s a question of whether this trend might reduce the importance of traditional editing skills.
The introduction of Clean Up in the iOS 18.1 beta is undoubtedly a significant advancement in mobile photography, demonstrating Apple’s push to stay ahead in the AI race. However, its current exclusivity to the iPhone 15 Pro models raises questions about Apple’s long-term strategy. Will this feature remain a premium offering, or will it eventually be made available to a broader audience? Only time will tell, but for now, Apple seems to be keeping its cards close to its chest.
