Google One subscribers on iOS and Android will soon be able to access the Pixel’s photo editing features like Magic Eraser, but that’s a bad move.
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The Pixel’s main pitch — aside from stock Android — was photography. Pixel smartphones have an advanced camera system that can rival any other flagship. Depending on user preference, it might be the best camera system found in any smartphone. But beyond raw capture capabilities, Google offered exclusive post-processing features for its Pixel users that were well-received. Now, these once-exclusive features are available on any device with a Google One subscription.
Another Reason Not To Buy A Pixel
The move also devalues Google’s own marketing claims about Pixel smartphones. It originally said these features, like Magic Eraser, required a Tensor-series system-on-a-chip (SoC). The Google Tensor chip and the second-gen Tensor G2 SoC were believed to power the company’s advanced computational photography and photo-editing features. With these tools coming to Apple and Samsung devices, it’s clear that wasn’t the case.
Though the flagship tool coming to all devices is Magic Eraser — which lets users pull unwanted people or objects out of a photo — there are others, too. Google One subscribers can also utilize HDR effects, new collage effects, and free shipping on print photo orders.
In theory, the decision to bring advanced photography capabilities to Google One platforms could increase subscription rates on all platforms. But it’s something that hasn’t really been done before. Most hardware and software manufacturers want their customers to buy their products and services — not one or the other. Since Google’s software is more valuable than its hardware, the company may have just given users a way to get the biggest benefits of owning a Pixel smartphone without even buying one.