Worried that users were affected by too much photo editing, Google turned off that feature by default on Pixel phones

For many years, most smartphones today are equipped with a number of “beauty” filters, help remove wrinkles, freckles, pimples, or smooth skin, as well as edit many other details on face.

However, some studies show that such functions have a negative effect on the mental health of users, and so Google decided to turn off these features on their Pixel phones by default. like encouraging other OEMs to do the same.

The terms for photo editing in the Google Camera app have also been changed towards a more neutral direction

” We are starting to understand better that filtered selfies can have an impact on people’s health .” Google explains its actions on the blog.

” Especially the filters are on by default. We do a ton of research and talk to kids and mental health professionals around the world and realize that, when you don’t know one. Camera apps or view certain photos that use filters, the photos can negatively impact your mental health Default filters have silently set a beauty standard that makes people have to compare yourself with them . ”

Google has also created a document on best practices when implementing face filters and recommends that they be turned off by default. The company also suggests OEMs and camera app developers should also stay away from terms like “beautification” or “touch up”, as they all imply that all Unedited photos will need to improve their quality. “Face retouching” is recommended as a neutral term.

Google is doing exactly that on its phones, too. Pixel phones will soon turn off the default “face retouch” feature. This option is still present on the photography app but in the new UI it will explain exactly how it works for the user. The Google Camera app also renames the level of editing on its app, from “Natural” to “Subtle.”

Refer to Android Police