Google’s Magic Editor Could Arrive On Non-Pixel Devices, But There’s A Catch

By Shikhar Mehrotra • Updated On Apr 10, 2024

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At I/O 2023, Google introduced the Magic Editor for the first time. The company demonstrated the impressive capabilities of the tool through a video, in which the tool moved around the subject of the photo, removed unwanted objects from the background, and enhanced the color of the sky. Of course, Magic Editor leverages generative AI to fill in the edited parts with contextually appropriate elements. However, it was with the Pixel 8 series that the feature was finally released for users. Now, a new report suggests that Magic Editor could also arrive on other Android devices.

Non-Pixel Users Will Be Able To Use Magic Editor With Limited Saves

Google Magic Eraser bundled with Google One — Via Android Authority

According to a report by Android Authority, the latest Google Photos APK contains a hidden string about the availability of Magic Editor. The string suggests that the tool will be free as part of another AI feature from Google Labs. However, there’s a catch. The string contains the following text, “Make editing even easier with a new AI experience from Labs. Remove distractions, move your subjects around, improve backgrounds, and more.” The description aligns with that of the Magic Editor.

Apparently, non-Pixel users will only be able to use Magic Editor to edit and save a limited number of photos every month. To use the tool beyond this limit, users must subscribe to a premium Google One cloud storage plan with 2TB of storage or more, which bundles the feature. It is important to mention here that the Magic Editor can run on any device since it’s a cloud-based AI feature, as opposed to some on-device features.

Magic Editor Could Push More Users Toward Getting A Paid Google One Subscription

Given that Google released the Magic Eraser to non-Pixel devices via Google One, it makes sense for the company to push the subscription tier with the Magic Editor. Allowing non-paying users to experience the feature can push them toward getting a paid feature, eventually adding to the company’s revenue.

Currently, Magic Eraser, along with other additional Google Photos features such as HDR, Styles, Portrait Blur, Color Pop, and Sky Suggestion, is available as part of the Basic Google One subscription, which costs Rs. 130 per month. Those who go for an annual subscription can save 16 percent.

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Shikhar Mehrotra

Shikhar Mehrotra is a seasoned technology writer and reviewer with over five years of experience covering consumer tech across India and global markets. At Smartprix, he has authored more than 1,700 articles, including news stories, features, comparisons, and product reviews spanning automobiles, smartphones, chipsets, wearables, laptops, home appliances, and operating systems. Shikhar has reviewed flagship devices such as the iPhone 16, Galaxy S25+, and Sennheiser HD 505 Open-Ear headphones. He also contributes regularly to Smartprix’s growing automotive section.

With a deep understanding of both iOS and Android ecosystems, Shikhar specializes in daily tech news, how-to explainers, product comparisons, and in-depth reviews. His DSLR photography in product reviews is recognized as among the best on the team.

Before joining Smartprix, Shikhar wrote for leading publications including Forbes Advisor India, Republic World, and ScreenRant. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication from Amity University, Lucknow.

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