Adobe camera app’s new feature will critique your photos using AI

2026-07-20 · Source: TechCrunch · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Emerging Technologies & Innovation · Depth: Novice, short

Summary

Adobe's experimental iOS camera app, Project Indigo, is integrating new AI-powered features, including photo critique and editing suggestions utilizing large language models. The app, led by Marc Levoy, aims for more deterministic outputs compared to typical prompt-based generative AI. New functionalities include a "professional" photo critique on framing, lighting, colors, and emotional impact, alongside capture and edit tips for reshooting or improving existing photos using Lightroom controls. Project Indigo also introduces advanced object removal with toggle-based selections for common clutter like people, wires, or vehicles, and the ability to describe custom objects. Other additions are AI-driven depth of field generation and a style transfer feature. These experimental features, powered by Google's Gemini-based Nano Banana and potentially Adobe Firefly, are currently in a testing phase for select users.

Key takeaway

For mobile app developers considering AI integration for creative tools, Project Indigo demonstrates a shift towards deterministic, button-driven AI features. You should prioritize user experience by offering specific, actionable critiques and toggle-based controls, rather than relying solely on open-ended prompt interfaces. This approach can enhance user learning and provide more reliable results, potentially increasing adoption and satisfaction in photo editing applications.

Key insights

AI can provide deterministic, descriptive photo critiques and editing tools, simplifying complex creative processes beyond prompt-based generation.

Principles

• Deterministic AI outputs enhance user control in creative applications.
• AI-driven critiques offer specific, actionable feedback for skill improvement.
• Toggle-based object removal improves precision over manual selection.

In practice

• Utilize AI for detailed photo critiques on composition and impact.
• Apply toggle-based object removal for efficient background cleanup.
• Explore AI-generated depth of field for simulated background blur.

Topics

• Adobe Project Indigo
• AI Photography
• Large Language Models
• Object Removal
• Depth of Field
• Mobile Camera Apps

Best for: Computer Vision Engineer, Tech Journalist, General Interest, AI Product Manager

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by TechCrunch.