Edit photos with AI: remove objects with Google Photos and Windows Photos
How to remove objects and distractions from a photo with Google Photos’ Magic Eraser or the Windows Photos app’s Generative erase, step by step and with their limits.
The most useful everyday AI edit is the simplest: removing what doesn’t belong (a cable, a bin, a stranger in the background) without knowing Photoshop. Two tools you probably already have:
On your phone: Google Photos Magic Eraser
According to Google Photos help for Android:
- Open Google Photos and the photo you want to edit.
- Tap Edit and choose Magic Eraser (also under the Actions tab).
- Tap, circle or brush over the area to remove.
- Tap Erase. If you get it wrong, Deselect to start again.
- Tap Done and save.
Google also offers Magic Editor to move or recompose parts of a photo and Unblur for shaky shots (official page). Availability depends on device and account; Google notes some features are experimental.
On your computer: Windows Photos Generative erase
According to Microsoft’s help:
- Open the image in the Photos app and go to Edit.
- Choose Erase and drag the Brush over the area; adjust the brush Size.
- With Auto apply on, it erases when you finish. Turn it off to Add mask or Remove mask precisely, then select Erase.
Microsoft warns the AI infills the area and may not be perfect, and that processing is done on your device: the photo never leaves it.
Use it sensibly
- Always keep the original.
- Don’t retouch photos that serve as evidence (car damage, a receipt, an injury).
- If you publish a heavily altered image, say so: it helps avoid feeding misinformation (deepfakes).
Frequently asked questions
Are photos edited in Windows uploaded to the internet?
Microsoft says Generative erase is processed locally on your device and your data never leaves it.
Why don’t I see Magic Eraser?
It depends on app version, device and account. Google’s help suggests checking connection and storage, opening Edit, waiting a few minutes and reopening the app.
Can I erase a person and publish the photo?
Technically yes, but if the photo is used to deceive (in an ad, a document or a claim) there can be consequences. Use it to clean backgrounds, not to falsify facts.
Keep reading
Sources
Change log
- : First published with the official Google Photos and Microsoft help as checked that day.
Educational content, prepared with the help of AI tools, with sources cited. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Tools change fast: if you spot something out of date, write to us at contacto@cognenza.com. How we work.