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Google is now rolling out a new “Ultra HDR” editing feature in its Google Photos application, offering users the ability to convert standard images into high dynamic range (HDR) photos after capture. This enhancement builds upon the Ultra HDR image format first introduced with Android 14 and marks a significant development in mobile photo editing.
The update has been spotted in version 7.24.0.747539053 of the Google Photos app. Although many users may already have this version installed, the feature appears to be part of a server-side rollout, meaning availability will depend on activation by Google rather than solely on the installed version.
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What Is Ultra HDR?
The UltraHDR format allows photos to display a wider range of light and color, resulting in more vivid and lifelike images, particularly noticeable on HDR-capable displays. The format design ensures backward compatibility by allowing normal image viewing on obsolete or non-HDR display devices. The file’s hybrid format achieves this functionality by combining SDR (Standard Dynamic Range) content and HDR data.
After activating the function, users may find the Ultra HDR option under the Google Photos editor’s “Adjust” section. This new feature will replace “HDR Effect” and adds a slider control to allow users to adjust the HDR intensification.
The enhancement uses a gain map to generate a compact data storage space in which brightness and contrast data are distinct from the main image elements. The approach produces HDR-quality images while reducing file space by retaining original resolution duplicates.
Early assessment results indicate that Ultra HDR significantly improves visual quality for enhanced photographs. The converted photographs include customized tags in their photo information, and GitHub provides an example platform for observing the change when browsed via HDR display-compatible browsers.
As of this report, Google has not announced a full-scale deployment timeline. However, the phased rollout indicates that wider availability is likely in the coming weeks.
