We Tested Samsung’s Object Eraser To See If It’s Worth The Hype

Last year, Google showcased its Magic Eraser feature that enables you to get rid of unwanted stuff from your photographs. For instance, if someone steps into your picture of the Taj Mahal, you can remove the photobombs with a couple of clicks. This tool relies on machine learning to predict how the image would look without the unwanted elements. Unfortunately for users, the Mountain View company made this feature exclusive to the Pixel 6 line-up.

Thankfully, Samsung decided to have its own take on this tech. Starting as an experimental Labs feature, the Object Eraser feature is now ready for prime time. While Samsung too has made this feature exclusive for its Galaxy line-up, it is available on way more devices spanning different price points. I got to try out Object Eraser while reviewing the Galaxy M53. I must say, I’m surprised how well this feature works. I’m going to highlight its abilities as well as shortcomings, but first here’s how to access it.

1. Launch Samsung’s default Gallery app.
2. Tap on the image you would like to edit.
3. Select the Edit option.
4. Now, click on the ellipsis (three dots).
5. Select the Object Eraser.

Let’s begin with a well-lit outdoors snap. In this photo, we will try erasing a stranger and a scooter.

For selecting the objects for removal, I’m simply tapping on them. Of course, you get even better results with some precise brushwork.

The results speak for themselves. In the photo below, you can see the removal of the garden lamp pole is so seamless.

To make things more challenging, let’s try something in low light.

This one has come out quite well. However, if you look closely, the AI isn’t sure whether to fill in the blue or black hue.

I initially thought this feature only works with photos shot on the same device. Turns out I was wrong, and the Object Eraser plays nice any image as long as it is placed in your phone’s gallery. Obviously, my first reaction was to head to NASA’s lunar mission archives and try this.

Next up, are some beautiful royalty-free images. This feature works best when the machine learning algorithm can find an easy-to-replicate pattern in the images.

If you are wondering if Object Eraser can work with art, here’s an attempt to remove two characters from Edward Hopper’s masterpiece Nighthawks.

Overall, Samsung’s feature mostly delivers on its promise. It provides an incredibly easy and convenient option to clean up your photos right on the handset. Though, there’s plenty of room for improvement before it can challenge a Photoshop expert.