After Google and Samsung, now Microsoft brings magical AI photo eraser for Windows

Microsoft recently announced a new update for its Photos app, bringing AI-powered editing features to both Arm64 devices and Windows 10 devices. This update aligns with the trend of generative AI photo editing tools offered by competitors like Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy 24 series phones. Now, desktop Windows users can enjoy features like Generative Erase, Blur Background, and Remove and Replace Background.

Microsoft is beginning to roll out these new AI updates to Windows Insiders channels – including Windows Insiders on Windows 10 in the Release Preview Channel starting February 22. To get the updates, users are advised to update their Windows to version number 2024.11020.21001.0 or higher.

Meanwhile, let's take a look at all the new features Microsoft is bringing for its Windows users.

Generative Erase Feature in Windows

The new Windows update includes Generative Erase, a new feature that allows users to remove unwanted objects or distractions from their photos, such as background clutter, power lines, or photobombers. The feature uses AI to create a realistic and seamless result after erasing the objects, even for large areas. Users can adjust the brush size and add or remove masks to control the erasing process.

You can access the Generative Erase feature by choosing the Erase option under Edit Image. Then, you can use the brush tool to mark the parts you want to erase. You can also change the brush size to suit your needs. Additionally, If you want more control or need to erase multiple things at the same time, you can turn off Auto Apply and use masks. Each mask is an area that will be erased when you apply the changes.

Background Editing Features

Additionally, Windows is also getting two other features that let users change the background of their photos: Blur Background and Remove and Replace Background.

Blur Background feature helps you create a bokeh effect that focuses on the foreground subject and blurs the background.

Remove and Replace Background features can cut out the foreground subject and replace the background with a solid colour or another image. These features can be useful for creating portraits, stickers, or memes.

Notably, all of these new AI features are now available in the Photos app for Windows 11 for Arm64 devices, which are powered by processors that use the ARM architecture. According to Microsoft, these devices have long battery life and portability, and can benefit from the Photos app's AI editing features. Additionally, Windows 10 users will also receive these features for the first time, as they were previously exclusive to Windows 11. "For the first time, Windows 10 will be receiving all of the AI editing features that were previously available only on Windows 11, including Blur background, Remove and Replace background, and Generative erase," reads Micrsfot's official log post.

Additionally, the new Windows update also brings various stability fixes and improvements.