Photoshop iPhone App Launched by Adobe

Adobe Introduces Photoshop for Mobile, Initially on iOS

On Tuesday, Adobe officially announced the availability of its widely-used design and photo editing software, Photoshop, for mobile devices, beginning with the iOS platform. A version of Photoshop tailored for Android is slated for release later this year.

Mobile-Optimized Editing Experience

The newly launched Photoshop application for iPhone provides users with access to both complimentary and subscription-based features, all within a design optimized for mobile usability. The app mirrors many of the functionalities found in the desktop version, such as layering and masking capabilities, but adapted for smaller screen sizes.

Integration with Photoshop on the web is also available, though it requires a separate subscription.

Subscription Details and Existing Plan Benefits

A monthly subscription plan priced at $7.99 has been introduced for users desiring access to the app’s premium features and the web-based version of Photoshop. Adobe confirms that current subscribers to Photoshop’s paid plans already have included access to the mobile application.

Expanding Adobe’s User Base

Adobe’s strategic move to bring Photoshop to mobile aims to broaden its user base, particularly attracting a younger demographic accustomed to utilizing smartphones for creative endeavors.

A New Generation of Creators

According to Adobe’s official statement, the app was specifically developed “to welcome a new generation of image and design enthusiasts to the limitless potential of Photoshop.”

Competitive Landscape

This launch positions Adobe to compete directly with other popular mobile editing applications, including Snapseed, Picsart, and Canva mobile.

Seamless Workflow for Existing Users

For individuals already utilizing Photoshop across desktop, web, and iPad platforms, the new iPhone app facilitates editing on the go and enables a cohesive workflow across multiple devices.

Free Features and Tools

Users of the free version can leverage Photoshop’s fundamental tools to combine and blend images, utilizing selections, layers, and masks. The “Tap Select” tool allows for the removal, recoloring, or replacement of image sections.

Furthermore, free users have access to tools like the “Spot Healing Brush” and generative AI features powered by Adobe Firefly, including “Generative Fill” and “Generative Expand.” Hundreds of thousands of free Adobe Stock assets are also available.

Integration with Other Adobe Products

A direct integration with Adobe Express, Adobe Fresco, and Adobe Lightroom streamlines workflows for free users.

Premium Features and AI Enhancements

Subscribers gain the ability to transition between Photoshop mobile and the web version for enhanced precision and control. Additional Firefly-powered AI tools, such as “Generate Similar” and “Reference Image,” are also included.

Access to over 20,000 fonts, along with the option to import custom fonts, is provided to paid users.

Advanced Selection and Editing Tools

Premium features also encompass “Object Select” for precise selections, and the “Magic Wand” tool for isolating objects and applying targeted adjustments. The “Remove Tool” eliminates distractions, while the “Clone Stamp” hides unwanted elements, and “Content-Aware Fill” seamlessly fills image portions.

Refining Images with Advanced Controls

Users can adjust image brightness and darkness, and utilize advanced blend modes to control transparency and introduce unique stylistic effects.

Insights from Adobe’s Product Management

Shambhavi Kadam, senior director of product management at Adobe Photoshop, stated during a TechCrunch briefing that extensive conversations with creatives, particularly younger users comfortable with mobile devices, informed the app’s development. This feedback was incorporated to ensure optimal functionality for these users.

Diverse Use Cases

Kadam reported that beta testers utilized the app for a wide range of creative projects, including digital art, mood boards, podcast artwork, album covers, fashion lookbooks, video thumbnails, and memes.

Availability

Photoshop for iPhone is now available for download worldwide in the Apple App Store.