Adobe has officially launched its Reflection Removal tool, a game-changing feature that eliminates unwanted window reflections from photos. Initially debuted as a tech demo at Adobe's annual Max conference last year, the tool is now available as a technology preview in Adobe's Camera Raw.

The Reflection Removal tool, formerly known as Project See Through, uses artificial intelligence to distinguish between the two scenes that make up an image with a reflection. This is achieved by analyzing differences in content, white balance, and sharpness between the indoor and outdoor scenes. The AI model was trained on a massive database of thousands of photographs without reflections, which were then merged to create millions of images with simulated reflections.

The tool's capabilities are impressive, allowing users to salvage photos that would otherwise be marred by distracting reflections. For instance, a beautiful mountain vista captured during a flight can now be shared without the unsightly reflection of the plane's window. However, Adobe notes that the tool may struggle with extremely strong or complex reflections, which can be challenging for humans to decipher as well.

To access the Reflection Removal tool, users need to open the Camera Raw tool, navigate to the Technology Previews section of the Preferences Panel, and enable the New AI Settings and Features Panel. After restarting Adobe Photoshop or Adobe Bridge, the Reflections option will be available in the Distraction Removal section of the Remove panel. Currently, the tool only supports RAW images, but Adobe plans to add support for JPEGs and HEICs in the future.

Once the Reflections option is selected, the tool processes the image and presents a reflection-free version, along with a slider set to 100. Users can adjust the slider to restore the reflections or isolate the reflected image itself. The results are often stunning, making this tool a valuable addition to Adobe's suite of photography editing software.

The Reflection Removal tool has significant implications for photographers and content creators, who can now focus on capturing the perfect shot without worrying about unwanted reflections. As Adobe continues to refine this technology, it's likely to become an essential feature in the world of photography and beyond.

In conclusion, Adobe's Reflection Removal tool is a testament to the power of artificial intelligence in enhancing image quality. With its ability to eliminate distracting reflections, this tool is poised to revolutionize the way we approach photography and image editing. As the technology continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see the creative possibilities it unlocks for users.