Google implements new measures in its Photos app to clearly show when an image has been edited using artificial intelligence tools such as Magic Editor and Magic Eraser.
Google has announced a major update to its Google Photos app that will improve the transparency of photo edits made with artificial intelligence (AI).
Starting next week, the app will directly indicate when an image has been edited using advanced AI tools, such as Magic Editor and Magic Eraser.
This measure seeks to maintain transparency and align with the company’s AI Principles.
Transparency and AI Photo Editing
Artificial intelligence has revolutionized the way we edit photos, simplifying complex tasks that previously required advanced skills and a lot of time.
Tools like Magic Editor and Magic Eraser in Google Photos allow users to make quick changes, from cropping an image to removing distractions or improving lighting, all efficiently and in a matter of seconds.
However, Google recognizes the importance of ensuring that users are informed about the use of these technologies in their images.
To improve transparency, Google will implement a system in Google Photos starting next week that will clearly identify when an image has been edited with artificial intelligence tools.
This information will appear alongside other photo details such as file name, location, and backup status, all visible directly in the app.
Using Metadata to Indicate Edits with AI
Google had already integrated metadata into AI-edited images following technical standards established by the International Press Telecommunications Council (IPTC).
This metadata indicates whether an image has been modified using generative artificial intelligence technologies. With the new update, this information will be more visible and accessible to users, making it easier to identify altered photos.
Additionally, Google won’t just point out edits made with generative tools like Magic Editor and Magic Eraser.
Metadata will also be used to indicate when an image is composed of elements from different photos, even if the tools used are not generative.
For example, the “Best Take” features on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 9, and “Add Me” on the Pixel 9, which combine images captured at close time intervals to create a composite photo, will also include this information.
Google Commitment to Transparency in Image Editing
Google emphasizes that this is just one step in its effort to be transparent about the use of artificial intelligence in image editing. The company will continue to collect user feedback and evaluate additional solutions to continue improving in this regard.
Google highlighted that its AI Principles They guide all implementations of these technologies in their products, with a focus on accountability and transparency.
The update seeks not only to facilitate photo editing, but also to offer users the possibility of knowing and understanding how the images they store in Google Photos have been modified.
Google’s decision to make information about AI edits visible reflects a broader trend in the technology industry, where transparent and responsible practices with the use of artificial intelligence are increasingly valued.
This aligns with the growing demand from users and regulators to know when and how AI tools are used in consumer products.
Source: geeksroom.com
