Google Photos Introduces AI Labels for Edited Images

Google Photos announced it will add AI labels for edited images to enhance transparency for users. The Mountain View-based tech giant will include these labels in the images’ metadata. This change will allow users to easily check whether an image was created or modified using artificial intelligence (AI) tools. Google Photos will also highlight images that are composed of multiple photos using non-generative tools, especially for Pixel-specific features like Best Take and Add Me.

AI Labels Enhance Transparency

Google detailed its new transparency feature in a blog post. These AI labels will apply only to images edited with AI tools like Magic Editor and Magic Eraser. However, the company has not confirmed whether images edited with third-party AI tools will receive similar labeling.

Whenever users enhance an image using AI tools, Google adds this information to the photo’s metadata. This approach ensures the metadata remains intact, even if users crop or blur the image; the label will persist. However, screenshots will not retain this label because they generate new Exchangeable Image File Format (EXIF) data.

Google Follows Technical Standards for AI Labels

Google follows the technical standards set by The International Press Telecommunications Council (IPTC) for adding AI information to the metadata. This differs from the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA) standard used by Meta and OpenAI.

In addition to metadata, Google will display this information in the file details viewable in the Photos app. Users will find this information at the bottom of the page under “AI Info.” It will include credits for the tool used to edit the image and a “Digital Source Type,” which indicates whether generative AI or another method modified the image.

Google will label images edited without generative AI, such as those enhanced with the Best Take or Add Me features in compatible Pixel devices. This transparency initiative empowers users with knowledge about the origins and edits made to their images, improving their experience on the platform.