Google updates Snapseed camera app for iPhones: What has changed

Google has reportedly updated Snapseed, its popular photo-editing app, and add a powerful new camera feature exclusively for iPhone users. This latest update transforms Snapseed from a simple editing tool into a full-fledged camera app, complete with Pro controls and film styles. This major overhaul comes after around 9 months. According to a report by 9to5mac, the headline feature of this update is the built-in Snapseed camera. It not only works ‘perfectly’ in automatic mode for quick snaps, it now offers a suite of manual settings usually reserved for professional apps.

Users can now manually adjust ISO and shutter speed for lighting in tricky conditions; manual focus for getting exact artistic blur or sharpness, and apply “saved looks” while taking the photo.

Moreover, change or tweak them after the shot is saved.

Beyond the technical controls, Google is also bringing a bunch of other features, including retro filters. The update includes a range of preset film effects inspired by rolls from Kodak and Fujifilm. These include warm grain of a vintage vacation photo and the cool tones of professional cinema film – allowing users to emulate classic photography styles with a single tap.

Here’s the full list:

To further customise the experience, Google has even added several UI colour themes, offering users the ability to change the look of the app itself.

According to the report, the changes in the camera app began “quietly” appearing in December 2025. But it was hidden and could only be opened via the iPhone’s lock screen widget or the Control Center. With this official update, it can now be launched directly from the main app screen via a new icon in the top-right corner.