Enhance Your Photos with AI: A Guide to Microsoft, Google, and Apple Photos

In today's digital age, photos are more than just memories; they're a form of communication and self-expression. However, not every photo comes out perfect. Whether it's poor lighting, unwanted objects, or simply a lack of vibrancy, many factors can detract from a photo's potential. This is where the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) comes into play. AI-driven photo editing tools are revolutionizing the way we enhance our images, making it easier than ever to achieve professional-quality results with minimal effort. This article explores how you can leverage AI to quickly and easily enhance your photos using popular apps like Microsoft Photos, Google Photos, and Apple Photos.

For Windows users, Microsoft Photos offers built-in AI capabilities to enhance your images. Integrated with Windows 10 and 11, this application provides a range of AI-powered tools through its integration with Microsoft Designer. Designer, accessible both within the Photos app and as a dedicated website, offers various photo-editing features driven by AI. One consideration is that Designer utilizes AI credits provided by Microsoft, so mindful usage is recommended. Additionally, Microsoft Photos includes an AI-based background tool, allowing users to blur, remove, or replace photo backgrounds seamlessly.

To access Designer, open Microsoft Photos in Windows 10 or 11, select a photo, and click the 'Edit with Designer' button. The left sidebar presents several quick actions: 'Crop & rotate' to eliminate unwanted edges, 'Selective edit' to modify specific elements, and 'Auto enhance' which allows the AI to automatically adjust the photo. Further options include background manipulation (remove, blur, or change color) and restyling the photo with effects like pop art or pixel art. Adjustment controls are also available for fine-tuning brightness, contrast, saturation, highlights, shadows, temperature, and sharpness.

If you want to focus specifically on the background, open your photo in Microsoft Photos, click 'Edit,' and then select the 'Background' icon. You can choose to 'Blur,' 'Remove,' or 'Replace' the background. Adjust the intensity and use the brush tool to refine the selection. Save your changes by either saving the modified photo separately, replacing the original, or copying it to the clipboard.

Google Photos, available on iOS/iPadOS and Android, features the Magic Editor tool, which employs AI to enhance your photos. Open the Google Photos app, ensure you're logged in, and select the photo you wish to edit. Tap the 'Edit' icon, then the 'Magic Editor' icon. If prompted, agree to try the Magic Editor to proceed.

The Magic Editor analyzes the photo and suggests enhancements based on its content. It may identify specific elements and offer related adjustments. The editor displays several variants of the enhanced photo, which you can swipe through. Pressing down on an image reveals the changes made. If you find a version you like, tap the checkmark; otherwise, generate a new set of results or close the editor.

The Magic Eraser allows you to remove unwanted elements. In Magic Editor mode, circle, brush, or tap the element you want to remove until it's highlighted, then tap 'Erase.' The photo regenerates with the item removed. Swipe through the versions to find the best result and tap the checkmark. You can also move elements by tapping and dragging them to a new location, even resizing them. The photo regenerates with the item in its new spot, blending the missing area with the background.

Google Photos also offers an 'Unblur' feature to sharpen blurry or out-of-focus shots. Open the photo and tap the 'Unblur' command. After regeneration, use the slider to adjust the level of sharpness and tap 'Done' when satisfied.

Apple's Photos app, with the latest updates and on supported devices (iPhone 16, iPhone 15 Pro/Max, iPads with A17 Pro or M1 chips, and Macs with M1 chips or later), provides AI-powered enhancements via Apple Intelligence. The 'Clean Up' tool removes distracting elements from photos. Ensure you're running iOS/iPadOS 18.1+ or macOS 15.1+ on a compatible device.

AI has transformed photo editing, making it accessible to everyone. Whether you're using Microsoft Photos on Windows, Google Photos on iOS or Android, or Apple Photos on your Apple devices, AI-powered tools can help you quickly and easily enhance your photos. Each app offers unique features, so experiment to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences. With these tools, you can bring out the best in your photos and create stunning visuals with ease.