Google Photos now lets you upgrade photos to Ultra HDR after shooting

By: Nastya Bobkova | 21.04.2025, 08:39
Google Photos: now with Ultra HDR editing capabilities Google Photos introduces Ultra HDR editing for photos. Source: Android Police

Google Photos has started rolling out a new feature that allows users to turn regular photos into "Ultra HDR" after taking them.

Here's What We Know

This new editing option, which comes in version 7.24.0.747539053, allows users to enhance photos by increasing their colour saturation and brightness on smartphones with HDR screens.

The Ultra HDR feature was first spotted last September, but it was inactive until now. According to Android Authority, user @greyishere confirmed that the new option is now available in the Google Photos app.

The feature works by combining normal and high dynamic range (HDR) images into a single file. It's compatible with older devices and preserves the vividness of HDR images on HDR screens.

Here's How It Works

This feature is available in the Adjustments section of the Photo Editor. Once activated, it will replace the current "HDR effect" option, and users will be able to adjust the Ultra HDR intensity using the slider. The difference between a standard image and an enhanced Ultra HDR image is noticeable, especially on HDR displays, where photos look more alive.

The Ultra HDR format reduces the file size by retaining only important brightness information. This allows you to capture brighter, more colourful images without having to save the full HDR file.

The update is gradually being made available via the server, so it may take some time before it is available to all users.

Source: Android Authority