Adobe has officially launched the beta version of Photoshop for Android, bringing powerful image editing tools to mobile devices.
Highlights
- Photoshop goes mobile: Adobe’s Android beta brings layering, masking, AI tools, and desktop-level edits to phones, free during the beta phase.
- AI-powered magic: Tools like Generative Fill, Tap Select, Object Select, and Magic Wand deliver advanced editing on the go.
- Minimum requirements: Android 11+, at least 6GB of RAM (8GB recommended) for smooth performance.
- No paywall—yet: All features are currently free during beta. Future pricing or Creative Cloud tiering is still to be confirmed.
- Creative Cloud sync: Full integration with Adobe’s ecosystem, including Lightroom, Fresco, and Adobe Express, boosts productivity.
- Reimagined UI: Designed for vertical layouts and touch gestures, the app makes complex edits easier on smaller screens.
- Non-destructive workflows: Like desktop Photoshop, edits don’t overwrite originals, ideal for professionals and perfectionists alike.
- Built-in learning tools: Onboarding includes in-app tutorials and step-by-step guides to help beginners and pros transition smoothly.
- Stock assets included: Access to free Adobe Stock visuals makes enhancing projects fast and seamless.
- More to come: Adobe plans additional features throughout beta. Web sync (currently iOS-only) is not yet on Android.
Following its earlier release on iOS in January, this move marks Adobe’s continued effort to make professional creative tools more accessible to mobile-first users, including content creators, students, and on-the-go professionals.
A Full-Featured Mobile Experience
The Android version of Photoshop carries over many of the flagship features from the desktop application, including layering, masking, object selection, spot healing, and more.
These tools have been adapted for mobile screens, allowing users to create complex edits using a touch-based interface optimized for smaller displays.
During the beta phase, all features are available free of charge—a strategic decision that enables users to explore and test advanced tools without a subscription.
AI Tools and Advanced Editing on the Go
A highlight of the app is its set of AI-powered tools, including:
- Generative Fill – Modify, add, or remove elements from an image with realistic results.
- Tap Select – Quickly remove and replace objects.
- Magic Wand and Object Select – Refine selections with precision.
- Spot Healing Brush & Clone Stamp – Clean up imperfections or duplicate areas seamlessly.
These features, combined with support for blend modes, adjustment layers, and non-destructive editing, bring desktop-class functionality to mobile users.
System Requirements and Limitations
Photoshop for Android currently supports devices running Android 11 or later, with a minimum of 6GB RAM—though 8GB or more is recommended for the best experience.
At this stage, the Android app does not support integration with Photoshop on the web, a feature available on iOS (behind a paywall). Adobe has not yet confirmed if or when Android will gain this capability.
More Than a Companion App
This isn’t just a lite version of Photoshop. Adobe’s intent appears to be redefining mobile editing, appealing to creators who prefer working directly from their phones.
Whether for quick social media content, freelance jobs, or academic projects, the app provides a powerful alternative to desktop workflows.
Additionally, it enables seasoned Photoshop users to sketch, iterate, or make quick edits while away from their main setup.
Features and Integrations
Seamless Creative Cloud Integration
The app connects with Adobe’s Creative Cloud suite, allowing users to access and work on projects across tools like Lightroom, Fresco, and Adobe Express. This cross-app workflow simplifies creative tasks for those already within the Adobe ecosystem.
Optimized Mobile UI
The user interface has been reimagined for mobile devices, with a vertical layout and intuitive touch controls that streamline navigation and editing on smaller screens.
Non-Destructive Editing
Like its desktop counterpart, the Android version supports non-destructive workflows, giving users the flexibility to tweak or revert edits without affecting the original file. This feature is especially valuable for professionals and perfectionists alike.
Free Adobe Stock Assets
Users can access a curated selection of free Adobe Stock assets within the app—ideal for enhancing designs without needing to search elsewhere.
Built-In Tutorials and Learning Tools
To help users get up to speed, Adobe has included in-app tutorials and educational guides, making the learning curve easier for both beginners and experienced editors transitioning to mobile.
Adobe has hinted that more features will be rolled out during the beta period. While the full release timeline—and whether the app will remain free—is still unclear, the current offering provides a robust toolkit for mobile creators.
The Photoshop for Android beta is now available for download via the Google Play Store, offering near-full functionality without cost—at least for now.
