Adobe's Project Indigo adds generative AI tools in AI Playground update

The experimental iPhone camera app Project Indigo now includes generative AI tools in its version 1.1 update, marking a shift from its original 'natural SLR-like look' focus. Source: The Verge

AI Playground Features

The new suite, called AI Playground, offers four sections:

• Object Editing: Removes distractions such as people, vehicles, and wires, then fills gaps using generative AI. Source: TechCrunch
• Styles: Applies preset artistic looks like "pen and ink" or "backlit subject." Source: Engadget
• Photo Guidance: Provides a "professional" critique of framing, lighting, and composition, plus editing suggestions. Source: TechCrunch
• Custom Edit: Allows text prompts for edits not covered by presets, though Adobe warns this could lead to "slopland." Source: The Next Web

Underlying Technology

Unlike Adobe's usual reliance on its Firefly models, the AI Playground runs on Google's Nano Banana model. Adobe says it may switch to other models, including Firefly, in the future. Source: The Verge The app requires a cloud connection and caps edits at about 2K pixels for speed. Source: The Next Web

Future and Controversy

The AI Playground is being tested with a small percentage of users for a few weeks. Adobe's Nextcam Team notes it cannot remain free forever and will likely become a paid feature if successful. Source: Engadget The update has sparked the "what is a photo" debate, as the app praised for realism now rebuilds scenes. Adobe plans to tag edited images via the Content Authenticity Initiative and add invisible watermarks. Source: The Verge, The Next Web