Adobe rolls out AI-focused Photoshop redesign with simplified editing mode

Adobe is expanding its AI capabilities in Photoshop with a fresh update that centralizes artificial intelligence features into a streamlined editing mode. The new "AI Assisted Editor," now available in beta, consolidates the software's AI tools—including generative image editing, background removal, and content extension—into a single toolbar for faster access.

Simplified interface for AI workflows#

The new interface makes AI-driven tasks more discoverable and accessible to users who want to focus primarily on AI-assisted editing. Rather than hunting through traditional menus, users can find all relevant AI functions in one place, designed to feel less cluttered than Photoshop's conventional layout.

New ways to guide edits visually#

Beyond the interface redesign, Adobe is introducing a "markup" feature that lets users communicate directly with the AI by drawing on images. Instead of typing text prompts, users can sketch arrows to indicate repositioning, outline areas to recolor, or rough in shapes to suggest new elements—a more intuitive approach for visual thinkers.

Context-aware image understanding#

The software's underlying AI model, Firefly Image 5, has been upgraded to grasp the full context of an image. This advancement powers an update to the "Instruct Edit with Masks" feature, which now allows users to make complex adjustments through natural language without manually selecting every region to modify. Users can simply request changes like opening closed eyes or adding a hat to a subject, and the AI handles the targeted adjustments.

Learn more: The Verge reporting on Adobe's Photoshop AI update