Artificial Intelligence | February 2, 2024
Artificial Intelligence is set to make waves in 2024, potentially becoming a compelling reason to switch smartphones. Samsung led the way with the Galaxy S24, touted as an “AI phone” for its numerous AI-based functions, some genuinely useful.
Following in Samsung’s footsteps, Google showcased the capabilities of its algorithms, especially in photography, with the Pixel 8. The phone can remove people and objects from photos, select the right face for the best snapshot, and zoom beyond traditional limits. However, AI’s potential goes beyond these capabilities, as demonstrated by Google’s latest release.
Introducing Art Selfie 2, an enhanced version of a feature originally launched in 2018, now powered by Artificial Intelligence. As the name suggests, it can take a photo of us and modify it to integrate us into historical works of art. The new version is even more advanced and capable of a complete transformation.
The feature is integrated into the “Google Arts & Culture” app for Android or iOS, providing access to various themes related to the arts. For example, the app offers access to over 3,000 cultural collections worldwide, allowing users to explore both iconic and lesser-known artists and works.
Once the app is installed, you can launch Art Selfie 2 through a shortcut that appears as soon as you open the app. It works straightforwardly: first, it prompts you to take a photo with your phone’s camera, and then it presents various styles inspired by classic works or historical places. For instance, you can transform into an Egyptian pharaoh, a character from a Shakespearean play, a medieval knight, a Roman gladiator, or an astronaut in space.
An important detail is that the app won’t alter your facial features or aspects like skin color. This is because the app can detect your profile and crop the background to replace it with another. The only changes it makes are to your hair (for example, longer hair if yours is short) and the clothes or outfits you’re wearing. Nevertheless, the effect is striking and realistic.
