ON1 today launched Photo RAW 2026, a significant software update that brings next-generation AI, revamped masking layers, and a suite of new creative filters aimed at photographers seeking a powerful all-in-one photography workflow. The release tightens ON1’s position as a full-featured Lightroom alternative by integrating advanced super-resolution tools, improving selective editing, and expanding creative options—while keeping the non-destructive, raw-first approach users expect.
Key Improvements
AI Enhancements
Key improvements focus on three pillars: AI-powered enlargement, masking, and creative effects. Resize AI 2026 is now fully integrated into the core application, eliminating the need for a separate plugin. ON1 includes two new AI models: a “Highest Quality” generative model that restores fine detail, reduces noise, and produces sharper enlargements for prints and extreme crops, and a “Standard” model optimized for speed and batch processing. This integration streamlines workflows for photographers who need large-format output or want to rescue small or heavily compressed originals.
Masking Overhaul
Masking receives the largest overhaul since ON1’s Super Select AI. One-click Subject and Background Masks let users instantly isolate areas for targeted adjustments, while new Mask Layers provide non-destructive stacking, combining, and subtraction of multiple masks per layer or filter. An improved AI edge-detection engine yields cleaner selections around fine details like hair and foliage, reducing manual cleanup and speeding routine edits. These enhancements make selective color grading, localized sharpening, and targeted retouching faster and more precise within a single software environment.
New Creative Filters
The popular Effects module gains four new creative filters designed to expand stylistic possibilities: Depth Lighting for independent foreground/background light and color control, Split Field to simulate split-diopter cinematic effects, Double Exposure for layered, artistic blends, and a Motion filter that recreates intentional camera movement (ICM) effects after capture. Workflow refinements—favorites, search, and starting-point presets—help photographers find and apply looks faster, supporting consistent, repeatable edits across shoots.
Workflow & Practical Refinements
Beyond headline features, Photo RAW 2026 adds practical refinements photographers will appreciate. A new Negative Mode simplifies digitizing and processing film negatives by automatically inverting and color-correcting scans. Native grayscale support enhances monochrome workflows. ON1 also reports expanded camera compatibility, UI customization improvements, and dozens of under-the-hood optimizations aimed at delivering smoother performance across macOS and Windows.
Availability & Pricing
Availability and pricing follow ON1’s flexible model: Photo RAW 2026 is offered as both a perpetual license and subscription, with a MAX edition that integrates plugins for Photoshop, Lightroom Classic, and Capture One. ON1 provides a free 30-day trial so users can test new AI models, masking tools, and filters before committing.
Here is a video showing what’s new:
For photographers evaluating software, Photo RAW 2026 emphasizes complete control and ownership of images within a single application that handles organizing, developing, retouching, and creative finishing. The integrated Resize AI and improved masking make it particularly compelling for professional workflows that require large prints or extensive selective edits, while the new effects encourage creative experimentation.
In sum, ON1 Photo RAW 2026 is a substantial update to a mature photography software suite—one that blends powerful AI-driven features with practical workflow improvements. Whether you’re a landscape shooter needing sharp enlargements, a portrait photographer seeking faster masking and selective retouching, or a creative editor exploring new filters, Photo RAW 2026 delivers a balanced mix of technical and artistic tools in an integrated package.
