Google revives Snapseed on iPhone with major update and new editing tools

Google has surprised users by releasing a major Snapseed update for iPhone, bringing a fresh design, new tools, and improved photo editing features.

Google has rolled out a major update to Snapseed, its photo editing app for iOS devices. The new version 3.0 brings a redesigned interface for both iPhone and iPad users. This update introduces a grid view displaying all edited images, making it easier to browse through past work. Navigation now relies on three distinct tabs: Looks, Faves, and Tools. The Faves tab is new and allows users to save frequently used editing tools for quick access.

Google has updated Snapseed on iOS, with a redesigned interface and new photo editing tools. (App Store)

By MD Ijaj Khan

Ijaj Khan is a technology journalist and Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times, with over three years of experience covering the consumer technology industry. His work spans smartphones, laptops, wearables, gaming, appliances and AI - from hands-on reviews, comparison and buying guides to breaking news and in-depth features that help readers cut through the noise and make informed decisions. Before joining HT Tech, he worked with Jagran New Media, where he sharpened his instincts for fast-paced digital reporting. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in English Journalism and Mass Communication from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi. Whether he's testing the latest flagship smartphone, tracking a major AI announcement, or putting a gaming laptop through its paces, Ijaj approaches every story with the same goal - making technology feel relevant and easy to understand for everyday users, not just enthusiasts. When he's not in front of a screen for work, he's usually travelling to a new city, hunting for great food, or keeping tabs on what's next in tech before everyone else catches on.

Read moreRead less

Snapseed 3.0: Redesigned Interface and New Features

Snapseed offers over 25 editing tools and filters, including recently added film-style filters. Google also updated the app’s icon to a simpler design.

Snapseed has been part of Google since 2012, but it has seen little development over recent years. The last significant update came in 2021, followed by minor changes in 2023 and 2024. Because the app processes images locally on the device and does not depend on cloud services, Google appeared to have deprioritised its development. The sudden release of version 3.0 signals renewed attention to the app.

The updated interface focuses on ease of use. Users begin editing by tapping a circular plus button at the bottom of the screen. The new tab system separates editing functions clearly: Looks provides preset styles, Faves stores user-selected tools, and Tools offers the full range of editing features. The export option moved to the top-right corner for easier access.

Editing tools include options to adjust image details, correct tonality and white balance, and apply effects like lens blur and vignette. Retouch features allow selective editing, brushing, healing, cropping, and perspective changes. The Style tab includes film filters along with options such as black and white, HDR, and drama effects. Creative tools cover double exposure, frames, and text additions.

In addition to the interface overhaul, Snapseed now features a simplified app icon and a “More to come, stay tuned” message, which indicates further developments may follow. However, Google has not confirmed whether the 3.0 update will be available on Android.

Mobile finder: iPhone 16 Pro Max LATEST price, specs and all details