Google has announced that its photos app will now use SynthID technology to watermark AI-edited images. The update aims to enhance transparency by helping users identify images that have been altered using AI tools like Magic Editor. SynthID, previously used to mark AI-generated images from Google’s Imagen model, is now being integrated into Google Photos. Without affecting quality or creativity, this technology embeds an imperceptible digital watermark in AI-modified content, including images, audio, text, and video.
Users can verify whether an image has been generated or altered using AI by checking the “About this image” section in Google Photos. The AI info section will specify the source of the modification with a label such as “Edited with Google AI.” Unlike Samsung’s Galaxy AI, which applies a visible watermark, SynthID updates the image metadata to indicate AI manipulation without leaving a noticeable mark.
The watermark is resistant to common editing techniques, making it a reliable tool for distinguishing AI-modified content. However, the feature at present, only applies to images edited within Google Photos and cannot detect AI modifications made using other applications.
This move is part of Google’s broader effort to promote transparency in AI-generated content. As AI-powered editing tools become more prevalent, features like SynthID aim to prevent misinformation while maintaining the integrity of creative work.