Pixel 9 AI Photo Tools Coming To Older Models

If you're holding onto an older Google Pixel phone, you might be in for a treat. Some of the most exciting AI photo-editing features that were introduced as exclusives for the Google Pixel 9 series are now rumored to be rolling out to older Pixel models.

A Major Upgrade for Older Pixels

This good news comes from some deep digging into the latest Google Photos app code. Tech enthusiasts, including AssembleDebug and the team at Android Authority, discovered evidence suggesting that two powerful AI tools, Auto Frame and Reimagine, are being prepared for a wider release. The update is expected to reach devices from the Pixel 6 and newer, including the popular Pixel 8 series.

While Google has not made an official announcement yet, clues found within app code are often a reliable indicator of features to come. For owners of slightly older Pixels, this means a significant upgrade could be just around the corner, enhancing their devices without the need for new hardware.

What Are Auto Frame and Reimagine?

So, what exactly are these tools that could be landing on your phone? Both leverage Google's advanced AI to give you more creative control over your pictures.

• Auto Frame: This smart feature analyzes your photo to ensure the main subject is perfectly positioned. It can intelligently crop the image or even use generative AI to expand the background, guaranteeing a well-composed shot every time. It's a feature similar to what's found on high-end Samsung phones.

• Reimagine: This tool takes creativity to the next level. Using a simple text prompt, you can use generative AI to alter or add elements to your photos. For instance, you could add a classic car to an empty street or plant a virtual tree in a landscape. If you can describe it, Reimagine aims to create it for you.

Google's AI Strategy and What's Next

It makes strategic sense for Google to make its AI tools more widely available, provided the phones have the necessary processing power to handle them. While keeping features exclusive can drive sales for new models like the Pixel 9, expanding access keeps the entire user base engaged and showcases the power of the Pixel ecosystem.

This move helps Google stay competitive and demonstrates the long-term value of its devices. However, don't expect the feature gap to close entirely. The cycle is set to begin again soon, with the Google Pixel 10 series expected to be unveiled on Wednesday, August 20. We can anticipate a whole new suite of AI-powered capabilities that will, at least for a while, be exclusive to the latest and greatest hardware.