Google photos unveils new feature for backing up RAW images

Google is making waves with its latest feature rollout, as it now offers the ability to back up RAW photos within the Google Photos app. RAW photos, known for their unprocessed nature and intricate detail, are commonly used by professional photographers for advanced editing and grading purposes. What's more, this feature is already available for both Android and iOS apps, signifying a significant leap in the capabilities of the Google Photos app.

Google photos unveils new feature for backing up RAW images

The Google Photos app has adapted to the times, aligning itself with the growing trend of RAW photos taken on smartphones. Unlike previous practices, Google Photos now defaults to uploading RAW photos to the Google Cloud. Users will notice a dedicated RAW image badge, confirming the presence of this new feature. It's worth noting that this feature is currently observed on the Pixel 8 series but conspicuously absent on the Pixel Fold and other devices.

While Google has yet to make an official announcement regarding this feature, details concerning its functionality, availability, and compatibility remain shrouded in mystery. Presently, users have no settings or tweaks at their disposal to prevent the Photos app from uploading RAW files to Google Storage.

However, a word of caution—RAW photos can quickly consume storage space, and with the standard 15GB of free storage, it's advisable primarily for photographers who use it for professional purposes.

In addition to this RAW photo backup feature, Google Photos continues to enhance the user experience with a series of new, user-centric features. Recently, a revamped share menu was introduced, allowing users to send images, create new albums, and add images to existing albums with ease. Google is also making strides in desktop editing tools, enabling users to select various filters and make basic adjustments like brightness, saturation, HDR levels, and more. These additions showcase Google's commitment to improving the overall user experience in the world of digital photography.