Google has announced that it will begin embedding a digital watermark in images edited with generative AI in Google Photos.

The update, which takes effect this week, applies specifically to photos altered using the Reimagine feature within Magic Editor on Pixel 9 devices.

Introduced in 2024, Reimagine uses generative AI to modify images, enabling more advanced edits beyond traditional photo touch-ups. This capability has sparked discussions about the blurred line between standard digital photography and fully AI-generated content.

As AI-generated visuals become increasingly realistic, digital rights advocates have called for clearer identification methods to distinguish between real and AI-altered images. Digital watermarking has emerged as a widely discussed solution, as it allows for verification without directly altering the image’s appearance.

To address these concerns, Google will implement its SynthID watermarking technology, developed by its DeepMind division. SynthID embeds a digital watermark into AI-generated content without affecting the visual quality of the image. It can also scan and detect watermarks within AI-generated text and video files.

Users can verify AI-altered images by checking the “About this Image” section, which displays metadata containing the digital watermark.

Google notes that not all AI edits will trigger SynthID. Minor modifications, such as adjusting the color of a small background element, may not be significant enough for the system to apply or detect a watermark.