The quality of image processing algorithms has been evolving exponentially in the past few years. Thanks to the use of technologies like HDR, we are getting vivid and crispy images through the use of software. Ultra HDR takes the technology some levels above with outstanding quality. It works similarly to HDR, but it packs more image data into each media file. Therefore, the technology allows images to have brighter highlights, darker shadows, and more vibrant colors. Ultra HDR has been available on popular apps and services like Google Photos for quite some time. However, Google is now expanding this feature through a new feature.
It is worth noting that there is a big difference between being able to display an Ultra HDR image on a non-HDR display and converting an SDR image to HDR (or Ultra HDR, for that matter). Traditionally, the latter has been a difficult task and has not been available to the wider public. However, Google Photos is changing the rules by offering a neat feature to its users. According to Android Authority’s report, Google is now rolling out an option to its default photo app that changes things for the better! It will allow users to easily upgrade their SDR images to Ultra HDR.
How to convert images to Ultra HDR in Google Photos
The new feature will be available for users that have Google Photos version 7.24.0.747539053 or newer. However, the app version alone won’t do the magic as the feature is being enabled on a server-side update. If you’re running the correct version of the app on your end, Google can update it to enable the feature soon. It should be rolling in a gradual manner as Google tends to do with these server-side updates that bring new features.
Once the feature does land on your version of Google Photos, you will be able to convert SDR to Ultra HDR. You just need to open an image, tap Edit, and launch the editor. Here, scroll left on the tools along the bottom of the display, then tap Adjust. You will find the new “Ultra HDR” option in this menu. It replaces the “HDR Effect” option that was previously available in the editor.
According to Android Authority, the feature is clearly labeled as “Ultra HDR,” so it effectively converts the image. Curiously, the Ultra HDR images may end up smaller than the original image you were working with, since the HDR data of the image is smaller than the original photo. If you want to preserve the full information of the image, it might be a good idea to save the original photo after applying the effect. It may cost some of your storage space if you store two images. However, it’s a good way to keep the original and Ultra HDR effect regardless of your need.
This nice feature implementation, once again, puts Google ahead of the competition in image processing features. The brand is well-known for its Google Camera that can easily capture outstanding photos even without impressive hardware.
