Adobe’s Bold Leap into the Future: Embracing Augmented Reality and AI Innovations

Adobe initially introduced its Photoshop for iPad app last year, promising an experience akin to its desktop version for iPad users. Today, during its annual Max conference in Los Angeles, California, the eagerly awaited app has officially launched on Apple’s App Store. In addition, Adobe has revealed Illustrator for iPad, Fresco for Windows, and an innovative Photoshop Camera app that leverages the company’s Sensei technology. Adobe has also rolled out numerous updates to its Creative Cloud suite.

Adobe Aero

This year, Adobe is significantly investing in artificial intelligence to advance its next-generation mobile applications and services. In 2018, Adobe debuted Project Aero in a private beta, aiming to create a cutting-edge augmented reality tool for mobile platforms. Today, Adobe announced that Aero is now publicly available as a free app for iOS and iPadOS devices. As part of its Creative Cloud ecosystem, Adobe Aero allows users to craft AR experiences with zero coding skills necessary. The company noted robust user engagement during the app’s private beta phase over the past year.

Photoshop for iPad

The Photoshop for iPad app provides full PSD compatibility on a fresh platform tailored for content creators. Adobe aims to attract a new wave of young mobile users who prefer to create content on-the-go with this innovative app. It emphasizes compositing workflows and blends images, all while offering a workspace reminiscent of its desktop counterpart. According to Adobe, the app is optimized for handling large files with hundreds of layers.

Adobe’s Photoshop for iPad features a touch-based user interface, maintaining much of the functionality of the desktop version; however, not all tools available on desktop are included yet. Adobe assures users that this is merely the start, teasing future updates with even more capabilities. The Photoshop for iPad app is now available on the App Store for iPad Pro models, as well as iPad (5th generation), iPad mini 4, and iPad Air 2, with compatibility for both generations of Apple Pencil. Users will need to upgrade their devices to iPadOS 13.1 to access the app.

Adobe Fresco for Windows

In September, Adobe launched its Fresco painting app for the iPad as a complimentary tool for Creative Cloud subscribers. Now, the app makes its way to the Windows platform. Initially, Fresco will be available on Microsoft’s Surface Pro X and Wacom MobileStudio devices. The Windows version encompasses nearly all the features found in its iPad counterpart, including the integration of Sensei technology. Regarding pricing, Adobe Fresco will be offered through Creative Cloud plans or as a standalone app for $9.99 per month. A freemium version will also be accessible on Windows.

Adobe Photoshop Camera App

During the Max 2019 conference, Adobe introduced the upcoming Photoshop Camera mobile app, designed to infuse the iconic Photoshop ‘magic’ directly into users’ camera interfaces. This app is ideal for social media enthusiasts seeking a more straightforward way to edit and share photos across various platforms. Central to the app is Adobe’s Sensei technology, which employs artificial intelligence to enhance photo quality automatically. It will also feature unique lenses and effects curated by artists and influencers. Currently, the Photoshop Camera app is in preview mode for both iOS and Android users, with a full launch anticipated next year.

Adobe Illustrator for iPad

In addition to Photoshop for iPad, Adobe has revealed that its renowned illustration app, Illustrator, is set to arrive on the iPad next year. The app will offer a touch-based user interface, replicating the desktop experience for mobile users. It will seamlessly integrate with the desktop version, providing access to Adobe’s Stock, Fonts, and Creative Cloud libraries. While the public release is expected in 2020, ideally timed for the next Max conference, Adobe is inviting users to join the beta version.

Moreover, Adobe has announced a range of updates to its Creative Cloud suite of apps and services. All updates are now accessible globally to both current and new Creative Cloud subscribers. Over the next two days, Adobe will demonstrate its new apps and services to attendees at its annual Max conference.