Google Photos adds AI-edit labels for transparent image information
In response to the growing impact of generative AI on image editing, Google is introducing a new feature in Google Photos to identify AI-edited images. This update aims to increase transparency around AI-powered changes, making it easier for users to know which images have been digitally enhanced or altered using AI tools.
How AI-Edited Images Are Labeled in Google Photos
With this update, a new “AI info” section will appear in the “Details” view when you swipe up an image in Google Photos. This section will identify edits made with AI when certain metadata is present. The new labels are designed to display on images edited through AI in Google’s tools, such as Google Photos on Android, iOS, and the web.
When an AI edit is detected, users will see phrases like:
- “Edited with Google AI” or “Made by Google AI” in the “Credit” field.
- “Digital source type” offers further specifics:
- Edited using Generative AI: This applies to popular tools like Magic Editor, Magic Eraser, and Zoom Enhance, which allow users to quickly remove objects, improve lighting, or adjust image composition. While Zoom Enhance is exclusive to Google’s Pixel phones, the Magic tools are accessible to all users on Android and iOS.
- Composite of captured elements: Features like “Best Take” and “Add Me” are also identified, although they don’t use generative AI and are exclusive to Pixel devices. These tools create a new composition using captured elements rather than a real, single-shot moment.
Supporting Industry Standards and Compatibility
Google’s labeling method aligns with international metadata standards set by the International Press Telecommunications Council (IPTC). This adherence ensures that even images edited with third-party software following IPTC standards will also display the new AI information, as long as they include the required “Credit” and “Digital Source Type” fields.
Rollout and Broader Transparency Goals
Starting next week, the AI-edit labeling will begin rolling out to Google Photos users across all supported platforms. Google has highlighted the importance of responsible AI use and noted that it aims to bring transparency by joining the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA), a group focused on content authenticity.
By introducing this labeling, Google emphasizes how generative AI is making tasks like object removal, lighting adjustments, and composition changes simpler and quicker, tasks that once required extensive editing skills. Google aims to provide users with more transparent information, enabling them to identify AI alterations easily.
As AI continues to evolve, Google intends to expand transparency measures around digital edits, with this initial step marking a new phase in AI-powered photography tools.
Google Wallet can now store digital versions of your US passport! This can be used for domestic travel security checks at TSA checkpoints if your state doesn’t offer a digital ID yet.
Here’s how to add your passport to Google Wallet:
- Open the Google Wallet app on your Android phone (version 9 or later).
- Tap “Add to Wallet” and then “ID” followed by “ID Pass.”
- Follow the steps to scan your passport information page and the security chip inside the back cover.
- Record a short video of yourself for verification.
Important things to remember:
- This digital passport isn’t a replacement for your physical passport, so always carry both when traveling.
- It currently only works for domestic travel within the US.
- If you lose your phone, you can remove the digital passport from your Google account.
Pixel phones get new features to improve battery health!
The latest update lets you set a charging limit of 80% to slow down battery degradation. There’s also a hidden feature called “bypass charging” that might be even more helpful.
What is bypass charging?
With bypass charging, when your battery reaches 80%, your phone will continue to use power directly from the charger instead of the battery. This reduces wear and tear on the battery, especially while gaming or using demanding apps.
Is bypass charging available on all Pixel phones?
It’s not entirely clear yet. The 80% charging limit works on many Pixel models, but bypass charging has only been confirmed on the Pixel 8 Pro so far. It likely works on Pixel 8, 8a, and the Pixel 9 series too, but Google hasn’t officially confirmed this.
Pixel Screenshots get smarter!
The latest update for Pixel Screenshots on Pixel 9 phones integrates with Gboard. Now, when you take a screenshot that includes a movie, song, or product, Pixel Screenshots remembers that information.
How does this help?
For example, if you screenshot a song title and then open a music app, Gboard might autofill the song name for you. This feature is called “proactive recall.”
Other Pixel Screenshots updates:
- The image viewer now suggests more search terms based on your screenshots.
- The app automatically categorizes your screenshots (this might take some time).
- You can easily save a specific part of a screenshot with “Circle to Search.”
This update also brings new features to Gboard, including a sticker pack and the ability to browse Emoji Kitchen combinations.
Gemini Gets a Mini Makeover:
- The website’s text field now looks like the mobile app.
- The Android app now shows your Gemini model type (like “1.5 Pro”).
40 New Templates for Google Docs:
- Google Docs has added new, modern templates for various uses like business proposals or meeting notes.
- These templates are designed to save you time by providing a starting point for your document.
- You can find them by going to File > New > From template gallery.
Customize Your Google Messages Profile:
- Google Messages now lets you easily edit your profile information, including name and picture.
- This helps people you message recognize you better.
More to Come:
- Google says to expect even more new Docs templates in the future.
- Google Messages’ profile feature is rolling out to everyone soon.
Some Pixel users who have updated to Android 15 QPR1 have noticed a strange visual bug. The update seems to be mixing up the light and dark themes for app icons.
For example, if your phone is set to light mode, you might see app icons appear in their dark mode versions. Conversely, if your phone is in dark mode, you might see light mode app icons. This can make the phone’s interface look inconsistent and a bit jarring.
This issue is particularly noticeable with themed icons, which are designed to match the system’s color scheme. However, due to this bug, they appear in the opposite color scheme, creating a visual mismatch.
While this is a minor bug, it can be quite annoying for users who prefer a consistent look and feel on their devices. Fortunately, Google is aware of the issue and is working on a fix. It’s likely that this bug will be addressed in a future update.
In the meantime, users will have to wait patiently for a resolution. While there’s no official workaround at the moment, some users have reported that switching between different accent colors and then reverting back to the original color scheme might temporarily fix the issue. However, this is not a guaranteed solution and may vary depending on the device and Android version.
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