Google Photos adds AI labels on images edited with GenAI

Google Photos will soon display an “AI Info” tab for images edited with generative AI (GenAI).

In an official announcement, John Fisher, Engineering Director at Google Photos says, “To further improve transparency, we’re making it easier to see when AI edits have been used in Google Photos.”

The app will now clearly indicate when an image has been altered using Google’s generative AI tools like Magic Editor, Zoom Enhance, and Magic Eraser.

Previously, metadata was added to AI-edited photos following IPTC standards, but this information was not readily visible to users. Starting next week, Google Photos will make this metadata easily accessible, displaying it alongside other essential details such as file name, location, and backup status.

To access such info, swipe up on an image and the ‘Details’ section should appear at the bottom of the screen.

AI info may note “Credit” and a “Digital source type” indicating an image has been modified using AI. An example of a digital source type is “Edited using Generative AI” which refers to Magic Editor, Eraser, and Zoom Enhance.

There’s also “Composite of captured elements” which may refer to AI features exclusive to Pixel devices, such as ‘Best Take’ and ‘Add Me’. While such features don’t use GenAI, they do not capture real moments.

In a report by Android Authority, not only does IPTC metadata show on AI-edited images, but it will also appear for AI-generated images as well.

Google says that they will continue gathering feedback as well as eyeing more solutions “to add more transparency around AI edits.”