Apple is preparing a major overhaul of its Photos app, introducing a new suite of AI-powered editing tools across iOS 27, iPadOS 27 and macOS 27 – a move aimed at closing the gap with Android rivals.

According to reports, the update will centre on a new ‘Apple Intelligence Tools’ section, adding features such as Extend, Enhance and Reframe alongside the existing Clean Up tool. The tools rely on on-device AI models, with most edits processed in a matter of seconds.

The Extend feature uses generative AI to expand images beyond their original frame, allowing users to fill in missing background detail. Enhance automates adjustments to lighting, colour and overall image quality, while Reframe enables users to alter perspective after capture – particularly for spatial images designed for Apple’s Vision Pro ecosystem.

The push marks Apple’s most significant step yet into AI-assisted image editing, an area where competitors like Google and Samsung have led for years.

Google’s Pixel devices, for example, have long offered features such as Magic Eraser and generative image expansion, while Samsung has leaned heavily into AI across its Galaxy lineup.

But Apple’s catch-up effort may not be seamless. Sources suggest some of the new tools, particularly Extend and Reframe, are still inconsistent in internal testing and could be delayed or scaled back ahead of release.

The company is already facing criticism over its existing Clean Up tool, with users reporting artefacts and inaccurate image reconstruction when removing objects.

The AI photo upgrades are expected to be part of a broader iOS 27 strategy focused on improving Apple Intelligence and refining system performance. Apple is likely to preview the updates at its WWDC 2026 keynote in June.