Apple’s Clean Up Feature Transforms iPhone Photo Editing with AI

Apple’s new Clean Up tool is now available for iPhone users. This feature uses on-device AI to remove unwanted objects from photos. It is part of the Apple Intelligence suite launched with iOS 18.1. The tool offers a powerful new way to perfect images directly in the Photos app.

The feature is designed to be simple and intuitive. It identifies distracting elements in the background of a picture. Users can then seamlessly erase them with a simple tap.

How To Access And Use The Clean Up Tool

Using the feature is straightforward. First, open the Photos app on a compatible iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Then, select any photo and tap the “Edit” button in the corner.

A new brush icon labeled “Clean Up” will appear in the editing menu. Tapping it activates the AI, which scans the image. You can then circle or brush over any object you wish to remove. According to Apple, the system often highlights potential distractions automatically.

The AI processes the request instantly. The selected object vanishes, with the background naturally filling in the gap. Users can revert changes at any time, preserving the original photo.

Device Compatibility And Strategic Differences

This powerful tool requires specific hardware. It is exclusive to devices with an A17 Pro chip or newer and all M-series Macs. This includes the iPhone 15 Pro models and iPads with M1 or later chips.

Apple’s approach is notably conservative compared to rivals. The Clean Up tool is intended for subtle edits, not major reconstructions. It works best on small, isolated objects against simple backgrounds.

For complex scenes, results may vary. This design philosophy prioritizes authenticity over generative creation. The focus remains on enhancing a photo’s existing composition rather than inventing new content.

The Apple Clean Up feature provides a significant upgrade for mobile photographers. It empowers users to easily refine their images. This tool highlights Apple’s growing commitment to practical, on-device artificial intelligence.

Info at your fingertips

What devices support the Clean Up feature?

The feature requires an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max, or any iPad or Mac with an M1 chip or newer. Older iPhone models are not supported due to hardware limitations.

How do I find the Clean Up tool?

Open any photo in your Photos app and tap “Edit.” Look for the new brush icon labeled “Clean Up” in the editing toolbar at the bottom of your screen.

Can it remove large objects or people?

It is best for small, distracting objects. The AI may struggle with large or complex removals, especially in crowded scenes with detailed backgrounds.

Does it work on old photos?

Yes. The Clean Up tool can be applied to any image in your Photos library. The AI processes the image on the spot when you enter edit mode.

Is an internet connection required?

No. All processing is done directly on your device. This ensures privacy and allows for editing photos anywhere, even without a cellular or Wi-Fi signal.

Will this feature get better over time?

Yes. Apple Intelligence models are expected to improve with subsequent iOS updates. Performance and accuracy should enhance throughout the iOS 18 cycle and beyond.

Trusted Sources: Apple, Bloomberg, TechCrunch