Microsoft launches Generative Erase, offering advanced AI-powered photo editing for Windows computers

Microsoft is enhancing its AI-powered photo editing capabilities with the launch of Generative Erase, a feature that is poised to transform photo manipulation on Windows PCs. This development mirrors the strategies of industry leaders such as Google and Samsung, who have also incorporated AI-driven tools into their products.

Generative Erase, announced by Microsoft for its Photos app, promises users the ability to selectively remove elements from their photos using artificial intelligence, reports The Verge. While Generative Erase isn’t as flashy as some of its other AI features, such as background removal or portrait enhancement, it brings powerful editing capabilities directly to Windows PCs without additional hardware.

What sets Generative Erase apart from others is its usability. Unlike features exclusive to certain devices such as Pixel or Galaxy smartphones, Generative Erase is available for a variety of Windows devices, including Windows 10 and Windows 11, as well as Arm64 devices. This comprehensive approach ensures that users can take advantage of advanced photo editing features regardless of their device.

However, deployment of Generative Erase is currently limited to Windows Insiders, Microsoft’s testing program for future Windows features. The company’s blog post indicates that the update is gradually being made available to Windows Insiders across all channels, including the Windows 10 Release Preview channel. To use Generative Erase, users must ensure that their Photos app is updated to version 2024.11020.21001.0 or later.

One unclear aspect is whether AI-edited photos contain metadata or watermarks that distinguish them from their unedited counterparts. While AI editing can significantly improve photos, users may want a way to identify which images have been altered using AI tools.

Overall, the introduction of Generative Erase underscores Microsoft’s commitment to providing users with powerful AI-powered features directly within the Windows ecosystem.

As the line between professional editing tools and consumer-grade software blurs, Generative Erase is a major step forward in democratizing photo editing for Windows users worldwide.