Apple Photos Revolutionizes Editing with AI: Cropping and Extension

Apple took advantage of WWDC 2026 to announce significant updates to its Photos app, incorporating advanced editing features powered by artificial intelligence.

Innovative Spatial Cropping

Among the new features, an innovative spatial cropping tool stands out, allowing users to correct framing errors after the fact. Whether it's to eliminate an unwanted element like a sign, adjust the symmetry of a photo, or recreate a missed eye contact, this tool offers unprecedented flexibility. Users can manipulate photos by tapping and dragging, simulating a repositioning of the camera within the original scene. They also have the option to preview the effect in real-time, making it easier to achieve precise adjustments to the image. A temporary blur appears around the edges of the image during adjustments, which is then filled in by Apple's generative models.

Image Extension with the Extend Tool

The Extend tool is another major advancement, enabling users to expand images to provide more space for subjects or straighten a tilted horizon without cutting out important elements. Users can pinch to zoom out and adjust the cropping, thereby adding more context to the photographed scene.

Enhanced Cleanup Tool

The already popular cleanup tool also receives an update. Thanks to generative AI, it is now possible to remove distractions with more realistic fill quality. Users can tap, brush, or circle the elements they wish to remove, thereby enhancing the overall quality of their photos.