Effortlessly Update Photoshop: Comprehensive Guide to New Features in 2024
- Sep 02, 2024
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As a creative professional or digital artist, keeping up with the newest Adobe Photoshop updates is essential to access the latest tools and features. In this manual, we'll walk you through the simple steps to update your Adobe Photoshop CC using the Creative Cloud app. Additionally, we'll explore the exciting new features introduced in the 2024 updates, helping you understand why these updates are valuable for your workflow.
How to Update Photoshop
Updating your Adobe Photoshop CC is easier than you might think. As an Adobe Creative Cloud subscriber, you have constant access to the latest Photoshop version. Adobe typically releases major updates every six months, and by following these steps, you'll ensure your software is always up to date.
Step 1: Open the Creative Cloud App
The first step to updating Photoshop is to open the Creative Cloud application. If you are a subscriber to any of Adobe's plans, including Photoshop CC, you already have this app installed.
- Locate the Creative Cloud app in your system tray; it's found in the top right on Mac and the bottom right on Windows.
- If you can't find it, try searching for "Creative Cloud" in your system's search bar.
- Open the Creative Cloud app to proceed.
Step 2: Navigate to the Updates Tab
Once you have the Creative Cloud app open, you need to find the Updates tab. This part of the Creative Cloud app keeps track of available updates for all your Adobe software.
- Look at the menu on the left side of the Creative Cloud app interface.
- Click on the "Updates" tab, which is the second item from the top.
- You will see a list of all Adobe applications that have available updates.
Step 3: Select Photoshop and Initiate Update
After navigating to the Updates tab, you can now choose Photoshop from the list and start the update process.
- Find "Photoshop" in the list of programs that need updating.
- Click the blue "Update" button next to Photoshop.
- Wait for the update to download and install. This process may take several minutes, depending on your Internet speed.
Congratulations! You've successfully updated your Adobe Photoshop CC. Next, let's explore the awesome new features included in the 2024 update.
What's New in Photoshop 2024: Key Features
Adobe has introduced several impressive features in the 2024 update that will enhance your design and editing capabilities. Here's a detailed look at some of the most noteworthy additions.
1. New Tool: Object Selection
The new "Object Selection" tool, powered by Adobe Sensei, simplifies the process of selecting objects within an image. Whether you're selecting a single object, multiple objects, or fragments of an object, this tool streamlines your workflow significantly.
To use the Object Selection tool:
- Select the object by drawing a rectangular area around it or using the lasso tool.
- The Object Selection tool will automatically select the object within the specified area.
This tool is designed to save you both time and effort, particularly when managing intricate selections.
2. Enhanced Properties Panel
The Properties panel has received significant enhancements, providing more controls for document properties, pixel layers, and text layers. Now, you no longer need to switch between different panels and dialog boxes.
Key improvements include:
- Comprehensive control over layer properties.
- Streamlined access to all necessary adjustments in one place.
3. Improved Content-Aware Fill
The Content-Aware Fill tool now offers three new parameters for the sample area: Auto, Rectangular, and Custom. These options allow you to specify the area in the image where Photoshop should search for source pixels, providing even more control over the fill results.
New parameters explained:
- Auto: Automatically selects the sample area based on the surrounding pixels.
- Rectangular: Allows you to draw a rectangle to define the sample area.
- Custom: Enables you to manually select the desired sample area.
4. More Realistic Lens Blur
The Lens Blur function has been improved with a new algorithm that uses the GPU, creating a more realistic bokeh effect with proper color processing and brighter lens flare.
To use the improved Lens Blur:
- Navigate to Filter > Blur > Lens Blur.
- Adjust the settings to achieve the desired bokeh effect.
This enhancement infuses your images with greater depth and realism, significantly boosting their visual appeal.
5. Photoshop on iPad
One of the most exciting updates is the availability of Photoshop on the iPad. With your subscription, you can now access a version of Photoshop tailored for the iPad, featuring many of the essential tools from the desktop version.
Key features of Photoshop on iPad include:
- Handling PSD files with ease.
- Managing multiple layers and layer masking.
- Access to basic tools like Brush, Erase, Fill, and Heal.
While the iPad version may not yet match the full capabilities of the desktop version, it offers a convenient way to make basic edits on the go. Over time, Adobe continues to improve this version based on user feedback.
Bonus: Free Actions and Overlays
No matter which version of Photoshop you have, you can enhance your editing process with free actions and overlays. These tools can enhance your workflow efficiency and introduce creative effects to your photos.
Some popular freebies include:
- Bokeh Effect: Add magical bokeh highlights to any photo.
- Film Effect: Give your photos an old film look.
- Black and White: Convert your photos to timeless black and white.
These additional tools can make your editing process more efficient and fun, helping you achieve the desired look for your images.
Final Thoughts
Keeping Adobe Photoshop CC up to date is crucial for accessing the latest features and tools. This straightforward tutorial will guide you step-by-step on how to easily upgrade your software. The 2024 updates bring valuable new features, from the Object Selection tool to the improved Content-Aware Fill and Lens Blur. Additionally, the introduction of Photoshop on iPad offers new possibilities for editing on the go.
Stay updated with Adobe's latest innovations and take advantage of the powerful tools they offer to enhance your creative projects. Happy editing!