# Apple Launches Clean Up Feature in iOS 18.1 Beta 3: A New Chapter in Photo Editing
On Wednesday, Apple revealed the third beta of iOS 18.1, introducing an innovative feature referred to as **Clean Up**, which harnesses the capabilities of artificial intelligence to improve the user experience in photo editing. This fresh functionality enables users to eliminate undesirable objects and individuals from their photos, providing an efficient and user-friendly approach to image modification.
## Grasping the Clean Up Feature
The Clean Up feature is crafted to ease the editing experience for users looking to enhance their photos. Unlike other AI-based tools that permit extensive changes, Clean Up is concentrated only on the removal of components from images. This indicates that while users can delete distractions or unwanted figures, they are not able to introduce new elements or alter existing ones, such as modifying a person’s appearance.
This restriction is notable, as the capability to exclude someone from a photo can significantly change its context and meaning. Considering the ongoing debates about the ethical ramifications of AI-generated and altered images, Apple has taken actions to ensure clarity in the editing process.
## Clarity and Ethical Considerations
In an effort to uphold ethical practices in photo editing, Apple has established a labeling system for images altered with the Clean Up feature. As per Craig Federighi, Apple’s VP of software engineering, images edited using Clean Up will be labeled as “Modified with Clean Up” within the Photos app. This labeling aims to make users aware that the image has been modified, promoting a sense of responsibility and awareness.
However, the visibility of this label sparks concerns. At present, only users operating the latest beta versions of iOS 18.1 or macOS 15.1 can view this modification label. Additionally, while this label appears in the photo’s EXIF data, accessing this data requires specific software or a computer, rendering it less accessible for the average user. Moreover, sharing images through platforms like WhatsApp or Telegram will remove the Clean Up label, possibly resulting in unmarked edited images circulating online.
## Upcoming Enhancements and Compatibility
Since this is the inaugural beta release incorporating Clean Up, Apple has the chance to enhance the user experience before the official launch. Improvements could involve making the modification label more visible within the Photos app and developing a method for third-party applications to acknowledge and retain this labeling system.
It should be noted that the Clean Up feature is a segment of the larger Apple Intelligence suite, which will be available later this year alongside iOS 18.1 and macOS 15.1. However, users must have compatible devices to utilize these features. Specifically, Clean Up necessitates an iPhone 15 Pro or later, as well as iPads and Macs with the M1 chip or newer.
## Summary
Apple’s rollout of the Clean Up feature in iOS 18.1 beta 3 signifies a remarkable advancement in photo editing, merging AI technology with accessible functionality. While the feature presents thrilling potential for enhancing images, its ethical consequences and the imperative for transparency in editing practices must not be disregarded. As Apple works to enhance this feature, it will be vital for the company to emphasize user awareness and accessibility, making sure that the advantages of AI-driven editing are accompanied by responsible use.
As we look forward to the final launch, it will be intriguing to observe how Apple tackles these issues and what additional innovations await in the digital photography landscape.
