The Image Playground app is Apple’s new AI tool to create custom images, illustrations and animations with just a few words or a photo. Available with the latest iOS updates, it’s a fun and easy way to make custom images for social media, to share with friends or just to play with AI.
Getting Started with Image Playground
- Download and Open the App: Image Playground is part of iOS 18 so iPhone and iPad users just need to make sure their device is updated. Once updated the app will be available under the Apple native app suite.
- Interface: The main interface has a text box where you can type in your image idea and buttons to add photos, styles, and other customisation options. Get familiar with these basics and you’ll be designing in no time.
Creating AI-Generated Images from Scratch
- Describe Your Idea: The app uses your description to generate images. Just type in a phrase like “a cat astronaut” or “robot chef” and the app will give you multiple AI-generated images based on your prompt. You can add more details for more specific results or keep it simple for more general and creative output.
- Styles: Currently there are two main styles: Animation and Illustration. Animation has a 3D, cartoon-like quality like animated films, Illustration has a flat 2D look. Apple may add more styles like Sketch in the future but these two give you a good range of options for now.
- Using Built-In Suggestions: Apple has added some preset themes to help you enhance your images without having to think of everything from scratch. Options include character outfits like astronaut or superhero, accessories like sunglasses or hats and environments like cityscape or outer space.
Using Your Own Photos
For those who want a more personal touch, Image Playground lets you use your own photos as the base for the AI designs. Here’s how:
- Select or Take a Photo: Open the app and either choose a photo from your library or take a new one. The app will analyze the photo and give you four image variations. You can then edit these using the app’s tools.
- Edit Details: You can further refine the AI generated images by adding text descriptions or using Apple’s built-in suggestions to add details or change the background.
- Create Avatars from Portraits: You can even select a person’s face from your photo library to create a custom avatar. The AI will turn the portrait into a stylized character so you can turn friends into superheroes or celebrities.
Saving and Sharing Your Creations
Once your image is complete, simply hit the Done button in the upper right corner to save it. The image will be stored in the app’s library, where you can view, delete, or edit it further. Sharing options are available, so you can easily send creations via social media, messages, or email.
Tips and Tricks for Best Results
- Try Descriptions: Experiment with different wording to get different results. The app’s AI is flexible so go wild with your prompts.
- Use Thumbs Up/Down Feedback: Apple is collecting feedback on Image Playground so use the thumbs up or thumbs down to help Apple improve future versions.
- Explore the Limits: Image Playground is for fun so there are some restrictions on ultra realistic or manipulated images. This is great for those who want to create lighthearted imaginative visuals rather than professional or photo realistic designs.
Apple’s Image Playground app is an easy way to dip your toes into AI image generation and create beautiful animated images. Combining simple customisation options with a simple interface it’s a great experience for those who want to get creative.
Image Playground might get even more features in the future including more styles and customisation options. For now, it’s a great way to create images of your ideas and enjoy the simplicity and integration Apple is known for.
