Since 2010, a simplified version of Photoshop, Photoshop Express, has been available on mobile devices. However, Adobe reports that their new app is more powerful and offers a wider range of Photoshop-like features. Both apps share similar functionalities, such as tools for resizing, masking, adjusting contrast and saturation, and removing objects or blemishes. However, Photoshop Express is more similar to popular mobile apps like Picsart and Facetune, while the new Photoshop app provides a user experience closer to the desktop version. The app also supports synchronization with Adobe’s cloud service, allowing users to continue working on projects across different devices.
The free version of mobile Photoshop provides access to a variety of editing tools, including the Spot Healing Brush, Tap Select, layers, selections, masks, as well as features for composition and image blending. It also offers resources from Adobe Stock, integrates with other Creative Cloud apps like Adobe Express, Lightroom, and Fresco, and includes the Generative Fill and Generative Expand tools, powered by Adobe Firefly AI.
Advanced features of Photoshop, such as the Magic Wand, Object Selection, Content-Aware Fill, Clone Stamp, and Erase tools, are available with a subscription for $8 per month or $70 per year. This premium package, known as Photoshop Mobile and Web, offers light and shadow adjustment options, enhanced blending modes for controlling transparency, color effects, styles, and integration with the web version of Photoshop. It also provides access to the Generate Similar and Reference Image features on the web platform. All users who have subscribed to Photoshop for PC will receive premium access to the mobile version of Photoshop.
The update to Photoshop for mobile devices is an expected and logical move. While Photoshop Express is useful for quick edits and creating graphics for social media, it has never been regarded as a full-fledged Photoshop. The interface of the new Photoshop app for iPhone is still mobile-optimized, but it is now more geared towards professionals in the creative field and complex design tasks.
Adobe has not yet announced any changes regarding Photoshop Express, which is still available for a subscription of $5 per month. It is unlikely that the company will support both apps simultaneously, especially considering the existence of another mobile editing platform with a similar name - Adobe Express.
Due to high competition in the mobile image editing app market, the number of downloads of Photoshop Express is decreasing. Therefore, the release of a nearly full version of Photoshop for mobile devices seems like a logical step, especially considering the availability of a free version. Adobe is also taking other measures to maintain its leadership, such as acquiring the Pixelmator app for Mac and iOS in early February.
Unfortunately, the Photoshop app is unavailable in Russia. To download it, you will need an account from another country. However, it does support the Russian language.