Adobe's photo editing program will soon be on web browsers for free.
The multinational computer software company is reportedly testing a free-to-use version of Photoshop on web browsers through a free Adobe account, per The Verge.
Adobe previously released Photoshop's web version in late October 2021, but it didn't offer most if not all of the original app's features.
Adobe Photoshop Web Version - Free-to-use or Freemium?
Adobe's web version of Photoshop, which is being tested in Canada, is a stripped-down version of the original app, similar to what was released in October 2021, according to Gizmodo. However, it seems to be positioned as a collaboration tool for artists to create or share an image with others so they can make minor edits or add annotations, much like Google Docs and other apps in Google's ecosystem.
Photoshop's web version will feature the original app's basic photo editing tools for users with an adobe account, which can expand its userbase. You may remember that Photoshop isn't friendly to less capable systems, and as such, the better versions of the app are relegated to devices whose specifications meet its demanding requirements.
Chromebooks, laptops with Chrome-OS installed for its operating system, can also benefit from Photoshop's web version due to them not being supported by Adobe's apps. This inclusion will be helpful to students who may find the need to edit a photo but can't due to Photoshop not being supported by Adobe.
Maria Yap, Adobe's VP of digital imaging, said that Adobe wants to make Photoshop more accessible for more people to try the product out, adding that she wants to see Photoshop meet users where they are at now.
"You don't need a high-end machine to come into Photoshop," Yap said.
Should everything go according to Adobe's plan, Photoshop's web version will get a taste of its capabilities and be convinced to upgrade to a subscription to unlock its full potential.
Currently, Photoshop's web version allows users to start new projects and access advanced color correction and editing tools, among other available tools.
Adobe did not disclose if getting a subscription will unlock features in the web version that will make it comparable to or even rival the original app.
Engadget mentioned that Adobe plans to offer more of the original Photoshop's advanced features available on the web browser option that could only be unlocked with a subscription.
When Will Adobe's Web Browser Version Become Available Worldwide?
Adobe didn't disclose a timeline on when Photoshop's web version will be available for the general public as the company is still improving and updating it.
The company is said to be updating Photoshop's web version with more tools, such as refining edges, curves, the doge and burn tools, and converting Smart Jobjects. Adobe is also working on making the web version accessible on web browsers on mobile devices, especially tablets.
