Adobe has released the beta version of its Photoshop app for Android devices, enabling all users to take full advantage of desktop-level editing on their phones. The newly released version comes just four months after the direct release of the application for iPhone by Adobe. Now, Android users can enjoy the same experience, not missing out on any features and functions available. The vast majority of the most important tools that are featured in the desktop app are also included in the mobile application – layering, masking, selections, and blend modes – all optimized for mobile screens.
Users simply have to tap a few controls to blend images, adjust layers, and use precise selection tools to perform all the actions on the photographs directly from their phones. Advanced tools such as the Generative Fill tool allow users to add or change parts of an image very comfortably. Quick and easy selections can be made with the Tap Select feature, while the Spot Healing Brush, Clone Stamp, and Remove Tool can be used to eliminate distractions or things that should no longer exist.
Other useful tools include Magic Want and Object Select, offering more accurate editing for complex areas of a photo. Users also get access to a growing library of free Adobe Stock assets that can be used within their projects, making it easier to create standout visuals without switching platforms. During the beta period, all of these features are available free of charge.
The app is designed for devices running Android 11 or later, with at least 6GB of RAM. Adobe recommends 8GB for the best performance. Unlike the iPhone app, which launched with both free and premium features, the Android version is currently entirely free while in beta. However, it’s unclear whether Adobe will introduce a paid plan or web integration later, similar to the iPhone version that works alongside Photoshop on the web for a subscription.
Adobe says the mobile version is aimed at attracting new users, especially those who are used to creating content on their phones. Additionally, it benefits current Photoshop users who might like to complete projects when not in front of their computers. Although the app’s interface has been made simpler for mobile devices, it still provides a robust collection of editing tools that can be used by both novice and expert users.
Additionally, Adobe has stated that more features will be introduced to the Android app in the future, increasing its usefulness and enhancing the user experience. The beta app’s foundation indicates Adobe is considering long-term maintenance and expansion for Android, even though it does not yet fully integrate with the desktop or online versions.
Our opinion
This launch is a welcome step for Android users who have long waited for an official Photoshop experience on mobile. The toolset is impressive for a beta release, and the app does a great job balancing accessibility with professional-level functionality. As more updates roll out, this mobile app could easily become a reliable editing solution for anyone who prefers creating and tweaking content on the go. If Adobe keeps improving it, Photoshop on Android could become as essential as its desktop counterpart.
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