Google Magic Eraser lets you easily remove distractions from images

Google has finally unveiled its Pixel 6 lineup, complete with its most advanced camera setup to date. You’ll find a 50MP wide lens and a 12MP ultra-wide lens on both the Pixel 6 and the Pixel 6 Pro, but Google’s new software features have created the most buzz. Specifically, we’re talking about the new Magic Eraser feature — but what is it and how exactly does it work?

See also: Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro buyer’s guide

What is Magic Eraser and how does it work?

Magic Eraser is a brand-new photo editing tool that allows you to clear up unwanted distractions from your photos. It works on everything from annoying photobombers to cluttered backgrounds and more. If you have a great photo with an unfortunate ex-partner in it, you can get rid of them, too.

The way Magic Eraser works is Google will first automatically suggest elements it thinks you will want to remove when you edit a picture. You can then tap on additional items to remove, or overrule Google and keep a few of its suggestions. Once you remove an element, Google will use artificial intelligence to fill in the empty space with what it expects to be there.

Learn more: Pixel 6 hands-on | Pixel 6 Pro hands-on

One of the best use cases for the Magic Eraser is if you have an image that’s clearly focused on one or two people. Google Photos will recognize that group, and then suggest removing any and all other people in the image. No need to spend hours cleaning things up in Snapseed or Lightroom.

Perhaps best of all, Magic Eraser isn’t just exclusive to pictures taken on the Pixel 6 series. You can apply it to any photo in your library, whether you took it today or years ago.

We’ll have to wait and see how the Magic Eraser works in practice, so check back once we’ve had some hands-on time with the Pixel 6 cameras.