Google may release a feature to let you fine-tune AI-generated images

Gemini’s image editing evolution: Google is enhancing its AI chatbot Gemini with a new feature that allows for more precise editing of generated images, marking a significant advancement in AI image manipulation capabilities.

• The new feature, discovered through an APK teardown of the Google beta app for Android (v15.40.31.29 beta), enables users to select specific areas of an AI-generated image for targeted editing.
• This functionality addresses a limitation in the current version of Gemini, where users can only refine images through text prompts without the ability to focus on particular sections.

How the new feature works: The precise editing tool in Gemini allows users to generate an image using text prompts and then make selective edits to specific portions of the image.

• Users can highlight certain areas of the generated image and provide additional text prompts to make targeted changes.
• The editing process is integrated into the chatbot conversation, allowing users to revisit and continue editing previous images in their chat history.
• While the feature represents an improvement, the demo video shows that edits are not always precise or reliable, with some changes affecting unintended parts of the image or creating entirely new variations.

Technical insights: The development of this feature was uncovered through an APK teardown, a process that analyzes code to predict upcoming features in software updates.

• APK teardowns can reveal work-in-progress code, but it’s important to note that predicted features may not always make it to public release.
• The precise editing feature was activated in the beta version of the Google app, indicating that it is still under development and not yet widely available.

User experience considerations: While the new editing capability enhances Gemini’s functionality, there are some limitations and considerations for users.

• The image generation and editing process can be time-consuming, with wait times exceeding 10 seconds per image when using Gemini Advanced.
• Users have the option to revert to previously generated versions if they are not satisfied with new edits.
• The feature’s integration into the chat history allows for a seamless continuation of the editing process across multiple sessions.

Competitive landscape: The addition of precise image editing to Gemini positions Google more competitively in the AI image generation market.

• Other AI chatbots and image generation tools have similar capabilities, making this feature an important step for Google to keep pace with competitors.
• The ability to make targeted edits could potentially set Gemini apart from other AI image generators that lack such precise control.

Looking ahead: The introduction of this feature signals Google’s commitment to improving Gemini’s image generation and editing capabilities.

• As the feature is still in development, users can expect further refinements and improvements before its official release.
• The timeline for the public rollout of the precise editing feature remains uncertain, but its presence in the beta version suggests it may become available to users in the near future.

Broader implications: The development of more sophisticated AI image editing tools raises questions about the future of digital image manipulation and its impact on various industries.

• As AI-powered image editing becomes more accessible and precise, it could potentially transform fields such as graphic design, photography, and digital art.
• The increasing ease of creating and manipulating AI-generated images also underscores the importance of developing robust methods for identifying and authenticating AI-created visual content.