Adobe unveils first Photoshop mobile app, including AI features from Firefly

As Adobe’s Photoshop celebrates its 38th year, it maintains its dominance with over 90% market share among creative professionals worldwide. The company has now launched its first dedicated Photoshop mobile app for iPhone, marking a significant shift from the simplified Elements version released in 2022.

Core offering and pricing structure: Adobe’s new mobile initiative includes both a standalone app and an integrated Mobile and Web plan that enables cross-device editing capabilities.

• A free version provides full on-device editing tools but lacks cross-platform functionality
• Premium access is available for $7.99 monthly or $69.99 annually
• Current Adobe Creative Cloud subscribers receive mobile access at no additional cost

Key features and capabilities: The mobile app delivers essential Photoshop functionality while incorporating powerful AI-driven tools through Adobe’s Firefly technology.

• Core tools include layering, masking, and the Spot Healing Brush
• Firefly AI powers features like Generative Fill and Generative Expand
• The new Tap Select tool enables single-tap object isolation
• Users can access over 20,000 fonts and Adobe Stock’s free asset library
• Advanced premium features include Magic Wand, Clone Stamp, and Content-Aware Fill

Mobile-optimized design: Adobe has reimagined Photoshop’s interface specifically for smartphone users.

• Touch controls and selection tools are optimized for smaller screens
• Essential features are positioned within thumb reach
• The interface minimizes visual clutter while maintaining functionality
• Object Select can identify and isolate subjects like people and animals automatically

Enterprise implications: The mobile expansion offers significant advantages for business users and creative teams.

• Teams can now edit and create content from any location
• Firefly AI models are trained on licensed content, ensuring commercial safety
• Integration with Adobe Creative Cloud enables seamless cross-device workflows
• The platform provides advantages over competitors like Midjourney and DALL·E for commercial applications

Future developments and market impact: Adobe’s mobile strategy signals a broader shift in professional creative tools while maintaining clear differentiation between subscription tiers.

• An Android version is scheduled for release later in 2025
• Web-based editing requires a Creative Cloud subscription, preserving value for premium users
• The platform bridges casual mobile editing with professional desktop capabilities

Strategic analysis: While Adobe’s mobile launch democratizes access to Photoshop, the tiered approach and integration requirements demonstrate a careful balance between accessibility and maintaining professional subscription value. The incorporation of commercially-safe AI tools particularly positions the platform for enterprise adoption, though the full impact on creative workflows remains to be seen.