Canva’s new editing tool adds layers to AI-generated designs
New tool automatically separates PNGs and JPEGs into individual, selectable objects and text layers.
Canva has launched a public beta for a new AI-powered editing feature called Magic Layers. The tool, now available in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, addresses a major limitation of current AI image generators by automatically converting flat PNG or JPEG files—whether AI-made or not—into fully layered designs. Each component, from objects to text boxes, becomes individually selectable and editable while preserving the original layout. This breakthrough, stemming from Canva's internal AI research, aims to eliminate the need to start over or craft the perfect prompt when only a small section of an image needs adjustment.
Magic Layers represents a significant step beyond what competitors like Adobe offer. While Adobe's generative AI tools in Photoshop and Express place new elements on distinct layers, they don't automatically deconstruct an entire existing image. Canva's feature provides creators with greater manual control for precise edits, moving past the limitations of simply asking an AI assistant for tweaks. However, this capability also blurs the line between AI-generated and human-made designs, as layered files can make it harder to distinguish work created from scratch from work that was initially AI-generated and then refined.
- Automatically converts flat PNG/JPEG files into layered, editable designs without user prompting.
- Currently in public beta in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, with expanded capabilities in development.
- Provides more manual control than competitors like Adobe, which don't auto-deconstruct entire images into layers.
Why It Matters
It solves the 'reprompting' problem in AI design, giving professionals precise editing control and accelerating creative workflows.