Adobe announced major Photoshop updates on January 27, 2026, introducing new non-destructive adjustment layers and enhanced Firefly AI capabilities. The desktop release includes Clarity & Dehaze and Grain layers alongside a beta Dynamic Text tool, while Firefly-powered features gain 2K resolution support.
Creative Cloud subscribers are receiving the update, with Firefly improvements available on the desktop version and coming to Photoshop on the web.
Adobe's Pam Clark stated the innovations aim to "reduce tedious tasks" and help users "exercise more precision and control" while maintaining creative momentum.
The Clarity & Dehaze layer replaces Camera Raw filter workflows for atmospheric adjustments. Users can balance lighting effects and enhance subject crispness through maskable, non-destructive editing. Grain adjustments add photographic dimension while preserving editing flexibility.
Dynamic Text beta simplifies text warping into circular, arched, or bowed shapes. The single-click feature automatically resizes text to fit paths, eliminating manual workarounds for curved typography.
Firefly AI tools receive significant upgrades across Generative Fill, Generative Expand, and Remove Tool. All three now output 2K resolution with sharper detail and reduced artifacts. Adobe refined lighting and depth algorithms to minimize visible seams in AI-generated content, competing with other AI image generation APIs in the market.
Reference Image for Generative Fill becomes geometry-aware, automatically calculating correct scale, rotation, lighting, color, and perspective when swapping objects. The enhancement delivers "geometry-aware results that better match the scene" according to Adobe documentation.
E-commerce and marketing workflows benefit from improved object replacement capabilities. When switching products like handbags, AI tools better retain original product identity while matching scene geometry.
The update addresses professional demands for non-AI enhancements alongside generative improvements. A TechRadar article noted the author has been "yearning for some serious upgrades to Adobe Photoshop that aren't just AI, AI, and more AI."
Adobe reports "incredible engagement and adoption of AI-powered tools in Photoshop" according to Clark. The company continues expanding Firefly integration across its Creative Cloud ecosystem while maintaining traditional editing workflows, part of a broader trend of AI creative tools transforming digital content creation.
Photoshop's latest evolution combines precision layer controls with enhanced generative capabilities, targeting creative professionals seeking faster workflows and higher-quality AI outputs. The simultaneous desktop and web rollout reflects Adobe's cross-platform strategy for its flagship image editor.
