Snapseed, the overlooked photo editing application from Google that unexpectedly began receiving significant updates for its iOS version last year, is officially back in action. After remaining inactive without major upgrades for years, Google launched a substantial Snapseed 3.0 version in June 2025 featuring a revamped editor and grid layout for photos. Continuous updates are being rolled out, although exclusively for the iOS version, with the latest update adding a “Snapseed Camera” capability with vintage film filters.
It’s safe to assert that Snapseed is truly back on the map. The app is clearly drawing attention from Google, with a steady stream of iOS updates and confirmation that Android updates are forthcoming. In an era where filters and nostalgic, anti-processing camera applications like Zerocam or Halide Process Zero are gaining traction, Snapseed holds the promise of becoming something exceptional.
Once Snapseed’s recent updates are released for the Android app in a few months, I will promptly begin utilizing it on my Android devices — it appears to be an ideal complement to Google Pixels.
Snapseed for iOS has now evolved into a redesigned photo editing application.
Google’s update to Snapseed for iOS last year came as a surprise, and the enhancements were noticeable. The app adopted a minimalist Google visual design — somewhat contrary to Material 3 Expressive — featuring a sleek new iOS icon and an organized photo grid user interface. After choosing a photo, editing can be done via three sections: Looks, Faves, and Tools.
The updated Faves section contains specific tools you’ve marked as favorites for quick access. It replaces the previous Export tab in the old interface, with the Tools section moving right to accommodate Faves in the center. A sharing button is now present in the top-right corner for managing the Save to original (replaces the original image with your edits that can be undone), Save copy (creates a duplicate image with your edits that can be undone), and Export (generates a copy with irreversible changes) options.
There are over 25 tools available in the Snapseed editor distributed across four categories: Adjust & Correct, Retouch & Transform, Style, and Creative.
What stands out about Snapseed as a photo editing software is its combination of professional-level tools with user-friendly and shareable filters. On one hand, it offers RAW editing support and color adjustment curves. On the other hand, it features film filters that evoke the nostalgia of social media’s early days. It’s user-friendly for everyone and feels less complex compared to the Google Photos editor.
It’s also an enjoyable camera with film filters.
The latest update, version 3.11, introduces the “Snapseed Camera” — a classic point-and-shoot capture tool that includes film filters inspired by genuine film stocks from brands like Kodak, Fujifilm, and Polaroid. The rollout of this update began last month with the interactive, skeuomorphic viewfinder (via 9to5Google).
Accessing the Snapseed Camera can be somewhat tricky if you don’t know how to unveil it. There isn’t a dedicated button in the Snapseed app that opens the Snapseed Camera. This ensures that the main app prioritizes photo editing. However, users who wish to explore the Snapseed Camera can add a toggle in the Control Center or set Snapseed as their default camera application in the Camera Control settings.
Upon trying the Snapseed Camera for the first time, you’ll discover that the chosen film style and intensity appear in the viewfinder in real time. However, the film grain is added after the photo is captured. You have the option to switch films, enable color themes, and control your flash to customize the appearance of your film-like images. The camera functionality works with both the front-facing and rear cameras.
Here’s the complete list of film styles available in the Snapseed Camera:
– KP1: Drawn from Kodak Portra 400
– KP2: Derived from Kodak Portra 160
– KG1: Based on Kodak Gold 200
– KE1: Inspired by Kodak E200
– FS1: Modeled after Fuji Superia 200
– FS2: Inspired by Fuji Superia 800
– FP1: Based on Fuji Pro 400h
– AG1: Derived from Agfa Optima 200
– AS1: Inspired by Agfa Scala 200
– PD1: Based on Polaroid 600
– TC1: Inspired by Technicolor
Beyond the photo editing capabilities, the Snapseed Camera is where Google can truly leave its imprint with the updated Snapseed application.
We are currently in an era where people are yearning for nostalgia, and products like record players and film cameras are making a resurgence. New models like the Fuji X Half are being introduced solely to promote intentional photography practices and styles reminiscent of film. The Snapseed Camera accomplishes the same goal, featuring an excellent interface along with the hardware you already possess.
Indeed, Google is invested in Snapseed for Android.
It’s apparent for Android users to notice Snap
