Google Photos Update Brings Retroactive Ultra HDR Conversion to Some Users
A recent update to Google Photos is allowing some Android users to retroactively convert standard dynamic range (SDR) photos to Ultra HDR, Google’s advanced image format designed for enhanced contrast and vibrant colors on compatible displays. The feature,discovered by Android Authority,appears in the editing tools of Google Photos version 7.24.0.747539053, allowing users to adjust HDR intensity.
Unlock Hidden Vibrancy: Google Photos Adds Ultra HDR Conversion
The Ultra HDR format, already utilized by some Android smartphones for new photos, takes advantage of the high peak brightness found in modern AMOLED displays, possibly making colors appear more vivid. Previously, capturing Ultra HDR images required manual selection within the camera app.
How the New Feature Works: AI-Powered Enhancement
The new Ultra HDR option replaces the adjustable “HDR Effect” found in older versions of Google Photos. It’s believed that Google is leveraging artificial intelligence to analyze the brightness levels within an image and optimize them for HDR screens. Users can adjust the HDR intensity of their photos on a scale of 0 to 100.
Gradual Rollout: not Yet Available to All Users
While the Google Photos update is rolling out, the Ultra HDR conversion feature is not yet universally available. Google appears to be enabling it server-side, meaning that even users with the latest app version may not immediately see the option.
Ultra HDR: Compatible and Efficient
Ultra HDR photos maintain backward compatibility, displaying correctly on SDR screens. Furthermore, the file size increase is relatively small, around 25%, as Google primarily adds brightness metadata to the existing SDR photo rather than storing a separate full HDR version.
Will converting to Ultra HDR reduce teh quality of my original photos?
Google photos Update Brings Retroactive Ultra HDR Conversion to Some Users
A recent update to google Photos is allowing some Android users to retroactively convert standard dynamic range (SDR) photos to Ultra HDR, Google’s advanced image format designed for enhanced contrast and vibrant colors on compatible displays. The feature,discovered by Android Authority,appears in the editing tools of Google Photos version 7.24.0.747539053, allowing users to adjust HDR intensity.
Unlock Hidden Vibrancy: Google Photos Adds Ultra HDR Conversion
The Ultra HDR format, already utilized by some Android smartphones for new photos, takes advantage of the high peak brightness found in modern AMOLED displays, possibly making colors appear more vivid. Previously, capturing Ultra HDR images required manual selection within the camera app.
How the New Feature Works: AI-powered Enhancement
The new Ultra HDR option replaces the adjustable “HDR Effect” found in older versions of Google Photos. It’s believed that Google is leveraging artificial intelligence to analyze the brightness levels within an image and optimize them for HDR screens. Users can adjust the HDR intensity of their photos on a scale of 0 to 100.
Gradual Rollout: not Yet Available to All Users
While the Google Photos update is rolling out, the Ultra HDR conversion feature is not yet universally available. Google appears to be enabling it server-side, meaning that even users with the latest app version may not immediately see the option.
Ultra HDR: Compatible and Efficient
Ultra HDR photos maintain backward compatibility, displaying correctly on SDR screens. Moreover,the file size increase is relatively small,around 25%,as Google primarily adds brightness metadata to the existing SDR photo rather than storing a separate full HDR version.
Ultra HDR Conversion: Q&A
what is Ultra HDR?
Ultra HDR is an advanced image format designed by Google to enhance the contrast and vibrancy of photos, particularly on modern displays like AMOLED screens.Think of it as a way to make your pictures “pop” with richer colors and more dynamic range.
How do I get the Ultra HDR conversion feature?
You’ll need the latest version of Google Photos (version 7.24.0.747539053 or newer).However, the feature is rolling out gradually, so even if you have the latest app, you might not see it yet. Keep an eye out in the editing tools!
Where can I find the Ultra HDR conversion option?
Look for it in the editing tools of Google Photos. It replaces the older “HDR Effect” option, allowing you to adjust the HDR intensity from 0 to 100.
Are my old photos compatible with Ultra HDR?
Yes! The new Google Photos feature allows you to retroactively convert your existing standard dynamic range (SDR) photos to Ultra HDR. This means you can enhance older pictures to take advantage of your phone’s display capabilities.
Will ultra HDR photos take up a lot more storage space?
Not considerably! The file size increase is relatively small, around 25%. Google adds brightness metadata to your existing SDR photo rather than creating a entirely separate HDR version, making it efficient.
Will Ultra HDR photos look weird on older screens?
Nope! Ultra HDR photos are backward compatible. They will display correctly on standard dynamic range (SDR) screens, so you don’t have to worry about images looking distorted on older devices.
Ready to give your photos a vibrant makeover? Keep your Google Photos app updated and watch for the Ultra HDR conversion feature – your pictures will thank you!
