How To Photoshop On iPhone

Quick Answer: To use Photoshop on your iPhone, download Adobe Photoshop Express from the App Store. For advanced editing and object removal, open the app, import your photo, select the Healing tool, and brush over the unwanted object. Photoshop Express also offers quick adjustments for cropping, adding text, and blending layers. For professional layering, use the companion app Adobe Photoshop Mix or Lightroom Mobile.

Mobile photography has advanced rapidly, and the iPhone is now capable of capturing high-resolution RAW images. To match this hardware, Adobe has developed mobile editing applications. In this guide, our creative testing team walks you through how to use Photoshop on your iPhone to perform advanced edits, crop images, and remove unwanted objects.


1. Choosing the Right Adobe App for iOS

Adobe splits its photo editing features into three primary iOS applications: - Photoshop Express: The main app for quick edits, filters, object removal, and basic collages. - Photoshop Mix: Focused on cutting out elements, combining multiple photos, and working with layers. - Lightroom Mobile: Best for detailed color correction, exposure adjustments, and managing RAW files.

For general editing, Photoshop Express is the most versatile starting point.


2. Step-by-Step: Removing an Object with Photoshop Express

Removing unwanted background elements is one of the most common editing tasks.

Step 1: Download and Log In

Download Photoshop Express from the App Store and sign in with your Adobe ID or Apple account.

Step 2: Import Your Image

On the app's home screen, tap Edit and select the photo from your library.

Step 3: Select the Healing Tool

Tap the Healing icon on the bottom toolbar (it looks like a band-aid).

Step 4: Paint Over the Object

Zoom in using two fingers, then brush over the object you want to remove. The app's algorithm will analyze surrounding pixels and seamlessly replace the object.

Step 5: Save and Export

Tap Next in the top-right corner, then tap Save to Gallery to export your edited photo.


3. Comparing Mobile Photoshop Apps

Before starting a complex creative project, use the table below to choose the right app for your workflow, compiled by our editing team:

App Name Primary Focus Best For Skill Level Price Tiers
Photoshop Express Quick adjustments & templates Object removal, cropping, borders Beginner Free / Premium subscription
Photoshop Mix Multi-layer compositing Combining photos, cutouts Intermediate Free
Lightroom Mobile Color grading & RAW editing Exposure control, presets Pro Free / Premium subscription

If your app crashes or freezes while loading large image files, check your device memory status. For storage management and clearing cache files, check out Apple Support. If you suspect physical screen damage is causing poor touch response while brush-painting, consult the repair guides on iFixit.

For tips on how to keep your system optimized for creative apps, read our guide on /blogs/how-to/how-to-check-if-your-iphone-is-hacked-in-settings.


Related Guides and Technical Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open desktop PSD files on my iPhone?

Yes. You can import PSD files into Photoshop Express or Lightroom via iCloud Drive. However, complex layers and smart objects from the desktop version may be flattened or limited on the mobile app.

Is Photoshop Express free on iOS?

Yes, the basic editing tools (cropping, filters, and standard healing) are completely free. However, premium features like advanced noise reduction and select filters require a Creative Cloud subscription.

How does the Healing tool compare to desktop Photoshop?

The mobile healing tool is powered by the same content-aware technology as the desktop version. It works exceptionally well for small blemishes, dust, and simple backgrounds, but may struggle with complex patterns.

Back to blog