ON1 Photo RAW 2026.4 is available today as a free update for all 2026 owners, and it’s the biggest release of the 2026 cycle. The headline addition is Restore AI, a new module inside Photo RAW MAX that brings old, faded, or any damaged photo back to life. Scan a print from a shoebox, recover a soft or noisy shot from an old phone, or colorize a black and white image with realistic results. Restore AI handles all of it, in seconds, without sending you to a separate app. 2026.4 also redesigns the Home experience to get you into your editing faster, delivers meaningful performance improvements throughout the app, and rounds out the update with new lens profiles and targeted bug fixes. If you’ve been using ON1 Photo RAW 2026 as your primary photo editing software, this update makes it better in ways you’ll feel every time you open the app.

Just launch ON1 Photo RAW 2026 to get the update, or download it from your ON1 account.

“This is the kind of update we set out to build this year. Meaningful new capabilities alongside the steady refinements that make the software easier to rely on every day,” says Dan Harlacher, VP of Product at ON1.

Restore AI: Every Photo Has a Second Chance

You have photos you never open. Some came from your first smartphone, a starter DSLR, a point-and-shoot from fifteen years ago. The moments were real, but the cameras couldn’t do them justice. And somewhere in a closet, there are shoeboxes of prints and negatives from your film days.

Restore AI, a new module inside ON1 Photo RAW MAX, fixes that. It sharpens soft images, recovers lost detail, corrects faded and shifted color, and removes noise that made you shelve the shot. It works on scanned prints and old film, but most of the photos it will improve are ones you shot yourself in the last twenty years. What used to take hours of retouching now takes seconds.

What Restore AI can do:

• Rebuilds lost detail, improves clarity, and reduces noise in soft, grainy, or poorly digitized images, with the option to add natural film grain back in.
• Transforms black-and-white photos into realistic color images and restores natural tone to photos affected by fading or color shift, with full user control over the result.
• Detects faces and restores lost facial detail while maintaining recognition.
• Steers the restoration with natural language prompts. Improve colorization, fix or add text, blur backgrounds, adjust ages, and more.
• Fine-tunes tonal correction, warmth, saturation, and tint, including monochrome photos.
• Restores entire albums automatically and supports negative conversion, organization, metadata, and easy export and sharing.
• Cloud-powered processing handles complex restoration tasks that go beyond what desktop computers can manage on their own.

Restore AI is fully included with ON1 Photo RAW MAX or ON1 Photo Studio with no credits or tokens required.

What to Expect from Restore AI

Restore AI does work that used to require hours of careful retouching. Results are very good on landscapes, architecture, nature shots, and photos where fine facial detail isn’t the main subject. For those, most photos come out looking genuinely great.

Faces are the hardest part, and an area we’ll keep improving. Restore AI detects and enhances facial detail, but it won’t be perfect every time. A portrait that would have taken hours of manual work may now be 90 percent of the way there in seconds. From that point, you have the full toolkit of ON1 Photo RAW MAX to finish it your way. The goal is to save you hours, not make every decision for you.

A New Home Experience

The 2026.4 update introduces a new Home module that serves as the default starting point when you open ON1 Photo RAW. It’s built to help you get into your work faster and make more of the app discoverable over time.

• Quick shortcuts to Open a Photo, Browse a Folder, and Import from Device.
• Access to Recent Edits, folders, and albums so you can pick up right where you left off.
• What’s New and Training content to help you get more out of the software over time.

Faster Performance in ON1 Photo RAW

Browsing a large library in Browse is faster in 2026.4. Thumbnails populate almost instantly when you open a new shoot, and scrolling is noticeably more responsive. We’ve also tuned the number of thumbnails displayed so you can see more images at once without extra clicks. The right-click context menu has been cleaned up too so it’s shorter and easier to scan.

Editing with many local adjustments is faster as well. Moving sliders and painting uses less memory and responds more quickly.

More Lens Support, Bug Fixes, and Stability Improvements

2026.4 includes new lens profiles, a targeted set of bug fixes, and under-the-hood stability improvements. These are the refinements you may not notice individually, but they add up to a more reliable, consistent editing experience across macOS and Windows.

Trusted Innovation, Built for Photographers

2026.4 is one more step in a year of steady, purposeful progress. Not features built for headlines, but improvements photographers feel in their daily work.

Since October 2025, we’ve delivered consistent updates across performance, AI tools, compatibility, and workflow. Each release builds on the last. Raw processing is an area we are actively working on and are excited to show these results soon. Your photos will look more accurate straight out of the camera and respond faster in the Edit module. More tools are coming that simplify everyday editing without taking control away from you. Updates will keep arriving more frequently, so fixes and improvements reach you sooner.

The goal stays the same: give you outstanding results while keeping you in control. Photo RAW should be a tool you can trust and rely on, year after year.

If you haven’t read our vision for what’s next, it’s worth a few minutes. It explains why we’re focused on faster releases, practical AI, and improvements that compound quietly over time. Every update in the 2026 cycle is included at no additional cost for Photo RAW 2026 owners. Subscribers to ON1 Photo RAW MAX and ON1 Photo Studio receive the latest updates and major releases automatically. More is coming in 2026.

Available Now for macOS and Windows

ON1 Photo RAW 2026.4 is available today for macOS and Windows. If you own ON1 Photo RAW 2026, just launch the app to get the update.

Restore AI is available exclusively inside ON1 Photo RAW MAX. If you own ON1 Photo RAW 2026 and want access to Restore AI, you can upgrade to Photo RAW MAX to unlock it.

Not yet an ON1 user? Try ON1 Photo RAW free for 30 days.

More is coming in 2026.

If you’re looking for a Lightroom alternative or a more flexible way to edit your photos, you’ve likely felt the shift happening across the industry. More tools. More AI. More reliance on subscriptions.

At the same time, photographers are asking a simpler question: can I get more from my software without giving something up?

That question reflects a broader shift toward tools that feel stable, predictable, and built to last.

If you’ve used ON1 Photo RAW, you already know what it’s built for: a complete all-in-one photo editing workflow. As your work evolves, something else becomes just as important, confidence that your photo editing software behaves the way you expect and evolve with you.

Strengthening the Foundation

Photo RAW remains the foundation of everything we’re building at ON1. Since the last major release in October, we’ve delivered steady updates each month focused on real-world workflows, refined tools, improved performance, and added support for new cameras and lenses. They make the software feel faster and smoother the more you use it.

At the same time, we’ve been investing in what matters most long-term: better RAW processing, improved image quality, and better photo organizing and faster performance for large jobs and high-volume workflows. That work is ongoing and central to where we’re headed.

From our perspective, Photo RAW will always be the core of ON1. It’s where we focus on image quality, performance, and the day-to-day workflow photographers count on. Our goal is simply to keep improving it with consistent updates over time, including a move toward a regular monthly release cadence.

This is about strengthening the foundation, not moving away from it.

Why This Matters

Photography workflows are changing. We’re managing more images, working with larger files, recovering digital files, using many different apps, and facing higher expectations than ever before. At the same time, software is evolving quickly, becoming more expensive and not always in ways that feel focused on photographers. Features change, workflows shift, and staying current often means ongoing cost.

Some of that progress is useful, but it can also make your workflow feel less consistent and even unreliable. That’s the problem we’re solving.

Where Photo RAW MAX Fits

Photo RAW MAX is evolving to reflect how photographers and ON1 power-users actually work today. It’s not a separate experience. It’s an extension of the workflow you already know, designed to give you flexibility when you need it. That might mean working across different tools, using ON1 as a plugin within a broader workflow, or accessing newer cloud-based capabilities as they become available.

In the past, Photo RAW MAX was primarily for photographers who wanted to use Photo RAW as a plugin inside other applications like Lightroom or Photoshop. That remains true, but it’s no longer the full picture.

Today, we’re expanding MAX beyond plugins to support more complete and flexible workflows, including new ways to work across applications, faster high-volume editing, and access to capabilities like cloud-powered processing when it makes sense.

MAX is where those possibilities come together without forcing you to change how you work.

Expanding Capability Without Trade-Offs

Some of the most meaningful advancements, especially in AI and large-scale processing, go beyond what a single computer can handle. Most companies solve this with subscriptions and credits. For many photographers, that trade-off doesn’t feel right. So, we’re taking a different approach.

With Photo RAW MAX, you can access cloud-powered capabilities where they genuinely improve results, while still having the option to own the software. A good example of this is Restore AI (coming soon). Restoring heavily damaged or aging photos requires more processing power than most systems can handle. By using cloud processing, Restore AI delivers better results without changing how you work or requiring a subscription.

In practice, at ON1 this means:

• local when it works best
• cloud when it adds value
• always building on your existing workflow

When you purchase a license for Photo RAW MAX, you’ll have access to these cloud-powered features for a full year at no additional cost. After that, access can be extended by upgrading or through additional options we’re continuing to explore. Our goal is to give you flexibility and choice without forcing you into a subscription. Keep in mind that subscribers get unlimited cloud access and always have the latest software.

Built for How You Work and What Comes Next

As I’ve previously mentioned, we’re focused on earning your trust and developing innovative solutions for your photography workflow. We are also focused on clarity across everything we offer. Photo RAW remains the complete editing solution at the center. Photo RAW MAX expands what’s possible for photographers who want more flexibility and access to newer capabilities. Photo Studio brings everything together into a fully connected experience. Each option is intentional, built to support different ways of working.

As we move forward, the focus stays the same: steady, meaningful improvements that make the software more capable without making it more complicated. That’s how everyone at ON1 will build tools photographers can rely on. If your current workflow works, it will continue to work. If you’re ready for more, Photo RAW MAX is there when you need it, not as a requirement, but as a choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is changing with ON1 Photo RAW MAX?

ON1 Photo RAW MAX is evolving beyond just the plugin-enabled version of Photo RAW. It will still support plugin workflows with applications like Lightroom and Photoshop, but it is also becoming the place where ON1 will introduce more advanced and flexible capabilities, including cloud-powered processing and workflows designed for photographers who want more speed, flexibility, and room to grow.

Is ON1 still committed to the standard version of Photo RAW?

Yes, 1000%. ON1 Photo RAW remains the foundation of everything we’re building. We are continuing to invest in the core application with regular updates, workflow improvements, camera and lens support, performance enhancements, and long-term work on areas like RAW processing and browsing speed.

Will ON1 Photo RAW continue to improve?

Yes. ON1 Photo RAW will continue to receive steady improvements over time. Our focus remains on making it better in ways that matter most to photographers, including performance, image quality, workflow refinements, and a more consistent update cadence.

Who is Photo RAW MAX best suited for?

Photo RAW MAX is designed for photographers who want more flexibility in how they work. That includes photographers who want to use ON1 as part of a broader workflow, access newer technologies as they become available, and take advantage of cloud-powered features when they improve speed or results.

Does Photo RAW MAX still work as a plugin?

Yes. Photo RAW MAX still includes plugin support for photographers who want to use it with applications like Adobe Lightroom Classic and Photoshop. That remains an important part of MAX, but it is no longer the only reason to choose it.

What are cloud-powered features in ON1 Photo RAW MAX?

Cloud-powered features are tools that use online processing when a task benefits from more power than a local computer can efficiently provide. This allows ON1 to deliver advanced capabilities, such as Restore AI, in a way that improves results while fitting naturally into your existing workflow. We will be expanding the feature set using cloud processing in the future.

Does Photo RAW MAX require a subscription?

No. Photo RAW MAX is available as a perpetual license. When you purchase Photo RAW MAX, you get access to cloud-powered features for one year at no additional cost. After that, access can be extended by upgrading or through additional options ON1 is continuing to explore.

Why use cloud processing in ON1 Photo RAW MAX?

Some advanced AI tasks, especially large-scale image processing or restoration, require more computing power than many local systems can handle well. Cloud processing allows ON1 to deliver those capabilities where they add real value, while keeping the rest of the workflow familiar and under your control.

What is Restore AI in Photo RAW MAX?

Restore AI is a cloud-powered feature in Photo RAW MAX designed to improve heavily damaged, aging, or low-quality photos. It uses more advanced processing than most local systems can efficiently handle, making it a strong example of how ON1 is using cloud technology where it genuinely improves results.

Will cloud-powered features replace local editing tools in ON1 Photo RAW?

No. ON1’s approach is to use local processing where it works best and cloud processing where it adds meaningful value. The goal is not to replace your existing workflow, but to extend it in practical ways.

If you’re looking for a powerful AI photo editing software and a true Lightroom alternative, the new ON1 Photo RAW 2026.3 update delivers meaningful workflow and performance improvements — and it’s completely free for all Photo RAW 2026 owners. Just launch the app to get the update, or download it from your account. Don’t own it? Order today

This release focuses on what matters most to photographers: speed, organization, stability, and smarter AI tools. Whether you manage thousands of images, edit on a laptop in the field, or rely on advanced machine learning features like Generative Crop and Resize AI, version 2026.3 improves the experience across the board.

ON1 Photo RAW continues to evolve as a professional-grade RAW photo editor built for photographers who want complete control without subscription lock-in.

“This update is all about refining the experience,” said Dan Harlacher, VP of Product at ON1. “We focused on speed, stability, and workflow improvements that photographers feel immediately, while continuously enhancing the AI tools that set Photo RAW apart.”

Performance Improvements That Make Browsing Feel Instant

Speed and stability remain a top priority for 2026 — and 2026.3 introduces the first round of major optimizations.

Faster Folder Browsing

Opening and browsing new folders is now noticeably faster. If you work with large jobs or regularly import new shoots, you’ll feel the improvement immediately. Additional performance updates are already planned for future releases.

Restored GPU Acceleration for macOS 26.3

Due to a macOS 26.1–26.2 bug, certain AI features temporarily reverted to CPU processing. With macOS 26.3, GPU acceleration has been restored.

Features benefiting from this fix include:

• Resize AI
• Generative Crop
• Generative Erase

To take advantage of improved macOS GPU acceleration, update to macOS 26.3 or later.

A More Flexible and Visual Photo Organization System

Professional photographers use color labels differently — so now Photo RAW adapts to how you want to work.

Custom Color Label Enhancements

You can now rename color labels in Preferences to match your workflow:

• Favorites
• Needs Retouching
• Client Selects
• Delivered
• Portfolio Picks

In Grid View, labeled photos now display a subtle background tint, making it easier to scan and identify images at a glance. This improves workflow efficiency for wedding photographers, portrait photographers, and high-volume shooters managing large image sets.

Hide Folders for a Cleaner Grid View

ON1 Photo RAW 2026.3 uniquely allows folders to appear alongside photos in Grid View. Now, if you prefer a distraction-free browsing experience, you can hide folders entirely.

Small Screen Improvements for Laptop Photographers

Editing on smaller displays can feel cramped. For new installations:

• Layers and Properties panes now default to the left side.
• Brilliance AI is collapsed by default.
• Common RAW adjustments are immediately accessible.

Existing users can still customize panel positions to match their preferred workflow. This allows you to customize the  Photo RAW layout to suit your needs.

Smarter AI and Image Processing Improvements

Improved Auto Level & Crop Model

The Auto Level tool now produces more consistent results across similar images — ideal for batch editing and event photography.

Enhanced Negative Mode Conversion

Negative Mode (in the Tone & Color pane) now delivers improved initial tone and color accuracy when converting scanned film negatives into positive images. If you digitize film, Photo RAW 2026.3 continues to grow as a capable film negative conversion software tool.

Expanded Camera & Lens Support

Added support for Sony a7 V (some compressed RAW formats not supported)

Updated camera profiles

New lens profiles added (list forthcoming)

Trusted Innovation, Built for Photographers

If you’ve been following our roadmap, you know this year is about steady, meaningful progress for ON1 Photo RAW. Not flashy features for the sake of headlines.

Since October 2025, we’ve delivered consistent improvements across performance, AI tools, compatibility, and workflow flexibility. Each update builds on the last, refining the experience photographers rely on every day. ON1 Photo RAW 2026.3 is part of that ongoing momentum with even more enhancements already planned for the months ahead.

If you haven’t read our vision for what’s next, it’s worth a look. It explains why we’re focused on faster releases, practical AI, and trusted innovation that puts photographers first. And as always, if you own Photo RAW 2026, every update in the 2026 cycle is included at no additional cost. Subscribers automatically receive the latest updates and major releases. More is coming in 2026.

Available Now for macOS and Windows

Today, ON1 Photo RAW 2026.3 is available to download for macOS and Windows. Choose between a perpetual license or subscribe to ON1 Photo RAW MAX or ON1 Photo Studio, which includes plugin support for Photoshop, Lightroom Classic, Capture One, and more.

Subscribers to ON1 Photo Studio automatically receive Photo RAW 2026 and all future ON1 apps and updates.

Download your free 30-day trial or buy it now to see why ON1 Photo RAW continues to be a leading Lightroom alternative.

If you own or subscribe to ON1 Photo RAW 2026, just launch the app to get the 2026.3 update, or download it from your account.

ON1 Photo Studio is an all-in-one photo editing subscription designed for photographers who want the easiest way to get ON1 Photo RAW MAX plus every ON1 editing tool—now and in the future.

To be clear from the start: ON1 Photo Studio is not a new photo editing app, and it does not replace ON1 Photo RAW. Photo RAW remains our core professional photo editing software, and perpetual (non-subscription) licenses for Photo RAW will always be available.

Photo Studio (previously named ON1 Everything Plus) is simply the new name of our best subscription plan. It’s perfect for photographers who prefer a bundled, always-up-to-date solution. It includes Photo RAW MAX, the full suite of ON1 professional photo editing tools and plugins, AI photo editing features, cloud sync, education, and automatic access to any new ON1 software products we release in the future—all in one plan.

Whether you’re exploring a Lightroom alternative, looking for professional photo editing software, or want a complete photography workflow solution without managing multiple licenses, ON1 Photo Studio offers a clearer, simpler way to get everything ON1 provides—while preserving the choice to own Photo RAW outright if you prefer.

Lets summarize all of that:

• ON1 Photo Studio is not a new app.
• It does not replace ON1 Photo RAW.
• And we will continue to offer non-subscription (perpetual) licenses for Photo RAW.

ON1 Photo Studio is simply an easier and more complete way to get Photo RAW MAX plus everything else ON1 offers in a single subscription—for photographers who want it. This announcement is about adding choice, not removing it.

What ON1 Photo Studio Is (and Isn’t)

Clarity matters, especially for photographers evaluating software or hearing about changes second-hand.

ON1 Photo Studio is:

• A photo editing subscription plan
• An easy way to get ON1 Photo RAW MAX
• A bundle that includes every ON1 photo editing tool
• A future-ready plan with all major upgrades included
• Built for photographers who want everything in one place

ON1 Photo Studio is not:

• A new photo editing application
• A replacement for ON1 Photo RAW
• A forced subscription model
• The only way to use ON1 software

If you prefer owning ON1 Photo RAW outright, that option remains available, just as it always has.

Why ON1 Introduced Photo Studio

Over time, many photographers end up using more than just a RAW editor. They add tools for noise reduction, resizing, creative effects, portrait retouching, or specialized workflows. Managing those tools separately—licenses, upgrades, compatibility—adds friction. ON1 Photo Studio was created for photographers who want a simpler, more complete solution, that’s always up to date.

Instead of deciding which tools to buy now and which ones you might need later, Photo Studio brings everything together in a single subscription that grows with your workflow.

It’s designed for photographers who want:

• Photo RAW MAX as their core editor
• AI photo editing tools without limitations
• Automatic access to future ON1 software
• Fewer decisions and less software management

Photo RAW Is Still the Core Editing App

ON1 Photo RAW remains the foundation of ON1’s ecosystem and continues to be the professional photo editing software photographers rely on for:

• RAW processing and organization
• Non-destructive editing
• Layers, masking, and color control
• Fast browsing and performance

Photo RAW MAX bundles Photo RAW with ON1’s most powerful tools—and Photo Studio simply extends that bundle into a subscription format that adds cloud syncing, education, and future software inclusion. Nothing about Photo RAW’s role, availability, or identity has changed.

A True All-in-One Photo Editing Subscription

For photographers who want a subscription, ON1 Photo Studio is the most complete option ON1 has ever offered.

It includes:

• ON1 Photo RAW MAX
• The full suite of ON1 professional photo editing tools and plugins
• Advanced AI photo editing tools as they’re released
• All major and minor updates automatically
• Any new ON1 software titles in the future
• Cloud Sync for photos and edits
• Full access to ON1 Plus education and resources

Instead of managing individual products or upgrade cycles, Photo Studio ensures your tools stay current—automatically.

A Clear Lightroom Alternative—Without Lock-In

Many photographers looking for a Lightroom alternative want flexibility without uncertainty.

ON1 Photo Studio is designed to offer:

• Professional-grade editing without feature gates
• AI tools without usage meters
• A subscription that adds value instead of restrictions

This balance is intentional. ON1 believes photographers should be able to choose how they access their tools.

Built for Modern Photography Workflows

Photography workflows evolve quickly. AI advances, new tools emerge, and expectations change. ON1 Photo Studio will allow customers to keep pace without forcing photographers to repurchase software. As ON1 releases new AI capabilities, major upgrades, or entirely new applications, Photo Studio subscribers receive access automatically.

That makes it ideal for:

• Professional photographers and studios
• High-volume shooters
• Photographers working across multiple systems
• Anyone who wants predictable, future-ready tools

Education and Support Included

Software is only part of the equation. ON1 Photo Studio includes full access to ON1 Plus, which provides education, training, and creative resources to help photographers get more from their tools.

This means:

• Learning new features as they launch
• Improving workflows over time
• Staying current as ON1 tools evolve

Photo Studio is designed to support photographers long-term—not just at install.

Choice Is the Point

The most important thing to understand about ON1 Photo Studio is this: It adds an option. It doesn’t remove one.

Prefer a perpetual license for ON1 Photo RAW? Still available. Want Photo RAW MAX without a subscription? Still an option. Want everything ON1 offers in one subscription? That’s Photo Studio. ON1 Photo Studio exists to simplify decisions—not force them, and is the best way to get everything ON1 offers.

If you’re deciding between ON1 Photo RAW and Adobe Lightroom Classic, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions among photographers who are either frustrated with Adobe’s subscription model or simply looking for a more capable all-in-one tool. Both are serious, professional-grade photo editors. But they’re built on different philosophies, and the right choice depends on how you work.

This comparison breaks down pricing, AI tools, editing capabilities, workflow, and performance side by side so you can make the call with confidence. The short version: ON1 Photo RAW is a powerful, subscription-free alternative with deeper AI features and built-in layered editing. Lightroom Classic is a mature platform with a strong ecosystem. Both deserve a serious look.

ON1 Photo RAW vs Adobe Lightroom Classic: Quick Comparison

Key Differences Between ON1 Photo RAW and Lightroom Classic

Pricing & Value

This is often the deciding factor. Adobe Lightroom Classic requires an active Creative Cloud subscription currently around $9.99/month for the Photography Plan. Cancel the subscription and you lose access to the software.

ON1 Photo RAW is a one-time purchase. You buy it, you own it, no monthly fees, no access cliffs. Upgrades to new major versions are available at a discounted upgrade price, but entirely optional. For photographers who bristle at the idea of perpetually renting their tools, this is a meaningful advantage.

Over three years, the subscription cost of Lightroom Classic can easily exceed the price of several generations of ON1.

AI-Powered Editing Tools

AI has become a major differentiator between photo editors, and this is where ON1 Photo RAW has a clear lead. ON1’s AI suite includes:

• Super Select AI — click any object or area and get an intelligent, edge-aware selection in seconds
• Sky Swap AI — detect and replace skies with a single click, with realistic blending
• Portrait AI — automatically detect faces and apply individualized retouching (skin, eyes, lighting) per subject
• Brilliance AI — one-click enhancement that intelligently adjusts tone, color, and noise simultaneously
• NoNoise AI — dedicated AI-powered noise reduction that preserves fine detail

Lightroom Classic has improved its AI masking and added Denoise AI in recent updates. But it still lacks built-in sky replacement and the depth of Portrait AI retouching without additional plugins or a round-trip to Photoshop.

Editing Workflow & User Experience

Lightroom Classic’s catalog-based workflow is well-established. You import photos into a catalog, and Lightroom tracks every edit non-destructively. However, catalogs can become fragile. File links break if you move images outside the app, and large catalogs can slow down over time.

ON1 uses a folder-based approach. You browse directly from your drives with no import required, no catalog database to maintain. This makes it more intuitive for photographers who prefer working with real file structures and is more resilient when you reorganize your storage.

Performance & Speed

ON1 generally handles large folder-based libraries more fluidly than Lightroom does with bloated catalogs. ON1’s GPU-accelerated processing pipeline helps with previews and rendering, particularly for AI-intensive tasks.

File Management & Organization

Lightroom Classic excels at catalog-based organization: smart collections, hierarchical keywords, color labels, star ratings, and face recognition are all mature and polished. For photographers with years invested in Lightroom keyword hierarchies, this is a genuine strength.

ON1’s folder-based system act as an image browser and is simpler but faster for photographers who organize with a clear directory structure. It supports keywords, ratings, color labels, and collections. If complex smart collections are central to your workflow, that’s worth weighing.

Feature Comparison Breakdown

Photo Editing Capabilities

Both ON1 and Lightroom Classic offer professional-grade RAW processing, non-destructive editing, lens and camera profiles, and a full suite of tone and color controls. The core editing floor is similar.

Where they diverge is in compositing. Lightroom Classic requires Photoshop for any layer-based editing. ON1 Photo RAW has full, non-destructive layers built in — so you can blend images, create composites, and apply masked effects all within one application.

AI Features

Presets & Effects

Both platforms support presets. Lightroom Classic has a solid ecosystem with adaptive presets that respond to image content.

ON1’s Effects module goes further with over 30 stackable creative filters. Dynamic Contrast, Glow, Sunshine, Lens Flare, and more — each fully maskable. You can combine multiple effects, mask them independently, and preview them in the browser before committing.

Mobile & Cloud Capabilities

ON1 Cloud Sync allows you to publish entire folder structures navigable on mobile (iOS and Android), syncs across multiple desktop computers, and keeps presets, add-ons, and preferences in sync across devices.

Lightroom Classic’s mobile syncing requires an active Creative Cloud subscription and routes through Adobe’s cloud infrastructure.

Pros and Cons

ON1 Photo RAW Pros & Cons

Pros:

• No subscription required, own it outright
• More advanced AI tools (Sky Swap AI, Portrait AI, Super Select AI, Brilliance AI)
• Built-in layers for compositing and blending without Photoshop
• Folder-based organization with no need to import
• Includes Focus Stacking and Time-Lapse Creation
• Over 30 creative, maskable filters in the Effects module
• Built-in Lightroom Migration Assistant

Cons:

• Less mature catalog/keyword management than Lightroom
• Smaller third-party plugin ecosystem
• Learning curve for long-time Lightroom users

Lightroom Classic Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Deeply mature catalog organization with smart collections and keywords
• Strong integration with Photoshop, Bridge, and Adobe ecosystem
• Large, established plugin marketplace
• Familiar to a large user base

Cons:

• Subscription required, ongoing cost, no ownership
• No built-in layer editing, requires Photoshop for compositing
• No built-in sky replacement
• Catalog-based system can become fragile and slow with large libraries
• Image upscaling and some AI features require full CC subscription

Is ON1 Photo RAW the Best Lightroom Alternative?

ON1 consistently ranks as one of the top Lightroom alternatives, and for good reason. It’s the most feature-complete standalone option, especially for photographers who want a single app handling editing, organization, AI tools, and creative effects without needing Photoshop.

Other alternatives worth knowing:

• Capture One — excellent RAW processing and color tools, but expensive and subscription-heavy. Strong for studio and commercial photographers.
• DxO PhotoLab — outstanding RAW development and optics corrections. Less capable for organization.
• Luminar Neo — AI-heavy and accessible, but less stable with weaker organization tools.

For photographers wanting the best balance of professional power, AI capabilities, pricing, and workflow flexibility, ON1 Photo RAW is the strongest all-in-one Lightroom alternative available.

Final Verdict: ON1 Photo RAW vs Lightroom Classic

Both tools are capable of producing exceptional results. But the right choice depends on your priorities.

Choose ON1 Photo RAW if:

• You want to own your software outright without a monthly subscription
• You need AI-powered tools like sky replacement, smart masking, and portrait retouching in one app
• You want built-in layers without round-tripping to Photoshop
• You organize files by folder and prefer direct access without catalog management
• You’re ready to leave Adobe’s ecosystem — ON1’s migration tool makes the switch straightforward

Stick with Lightroom Classic if:

• You’re deeply embedded in the Adobe ecosystem (Photoshop, Bridge, Cloud)
• Your workflow depends on advanced smart collections and keyword hierarchies
• Your team already uses Adobe tools and consistency matters

For most photographers evaluating their options in 2026, especially those frustrated with subscription pricing or looking for more AI capability without adding apps, ON1 Photo RAW delivers more value, more tools, and true ownership. It’s not just a Lightroom alternative; for many photographers, it’s the better choice.

Learn more in our Lightroom to ON1 migration guide →

Try ON1 Photo RAW →

We’re building ON1 to be software you trust the way you trust your camera . Familiar, dependable, and built to last.

A Clear Path Forward for ON1 Customers

If you’ve used a camera long enough, you know the feeling.

At a certain point, you stop thinking about the buttons.
You stop reading the manual.
Your hands move without hesitation.
The camera stays out of the way so you can focus on the image.

Photo editing software should feel the same.

Over the past few years, the photo editing software landscape has changed quickly. Some of those changes have genuinely helped photographers work faster and produce better work. Others have made things feel more complicated and more expensive than they need to be. New tools arrive constantly. AI moves fast. Workflows shift before photographers have time to settle into them.

At the same time, subscription costs across the industry continue to rise, increasing the pressure to rely on tools that don’t always feel stable or predictable. When change comes this quickly, even well-intended innovation can start to feel uncertain and trust becomes harder to maintain.

Many photographers tell us they want fewer surprises and fewer disruptions. They want tools that behave the way they expect, improve steadily over time, and respect how they work. They’re looking for software that feels dependable, not something they have to relearn every few months.

That gap between rapid change, rising costs, and lasting trust is what led us to take a serious and thoughtful look at where ON1 is headed.

Why ON1 Is Taking This Path

With so much change happening at once, it would be easy for us to chase every new idea or react to every shift in the market. But constant motion doesn’t build confidence and it doesn’t earn trust.
So we asked a more grounded question: What helps photographers feel confident in the tools they rely on, year after year?

The answer wasn’t more complexity or constant reinvention. It was better image quality and results. Professional-grade tools that save time without taking control away. A first in class user experience. And software that improves in clear, steady ways, so it becomes familiar rather than complicated.

Just as important, photographers want choice. Choice in how they own their tools and access ON1 products. Choice in how it fits into their workflow. And confidence that the software they rely on today will continue to grow and improve alongside them over time.

For us, that’s where trust and innovation meet. Innovation should earn its place by solving real problems, behaving predictably, and holding up over time. When software works this way, it supports your work quietly without demanding constant attention.

That belief shapes our direction and guides how we decide what to build, improve, and refine next.

What We’re Focused on Improving

With that direction in mind, our priority is strengthening the foundation of ON1, not rebuilding it every time something new appears, or simply bolting on new stuff.

That starts with continued improvements to image quality and raw processing in ON1 Photo RAW. We’re investing in better color, cleaner detail, improved shadows and highlight recovery, and more consistent results across different cameras and shooting conditions. When you open a photo, it should look correct sooner so you can spend less time fixing issues and more time refining your image.

We’re also placing a strong emphasis on performance and reliability. Faster browsing, smoother previews, and more responsive tools may not draw attention, but they matter every day. These improvements compound over time, reducing friction and helping ON1 feel more natural to use the longer it’s part of your workflow.

This kind of progress isn’t about chasing what’s new. It’s about investing where it matters most.

A Practical, Trustworthy Approach to AI

AI will continue to play a role in photo editing, but only when it’s used in ways photographers can trust.
Our approach is deliberate and practical. We’re not trying to replace photographers, and we’re not hiding important decisions behind one-click results. Instead, we use AI where it genuinely helps speeding up tasks like masking, selections, noise reduction, and cleanup while keeping you fully in control of the final look.

As our tools evolve, our goal remains the same: predictable results, controls that are easy to understand and adjust, and tools that fit naturally into the way you already work. AI should feel like a steady assist and not something that interrupts your rhythm or makes you second-guess your edits.

Privacy matters when it comes to AI as well. When you use AI tools inside of ON1, most of the work is performed locally, on your computer, rather than being transmitted to the cloud. There will be a time when we further integrate into the cloud with processing and users will have a choice then as well. We do not and will not use your photos to train our AI models unless we clearly and legally get specific permission from our customers.

Improvements That Arrive Steadily and With Purpose

Another important part of our direction is how improvements reach you.
Rather than holding updates for long periods, we’re committed to delivering updates more frequently. These updates aren’t about chasing headlines or adding complexity. They focus on thoughtful refinements like making tools better, workflows smoother, clear fixes, and responding directly to feedback from photographers who use ON1 every day.

The goal is simple: updates you can install with confidence, without worrying that they’ll disrupt how you work or force you to relearn familiar tools.

This allows ON1 to move forward in steady, understandable steps so the software feels more complete, not more demanding.

Built With Photographers in Mind

Everything we’re building is guided by how photographers actually work in the real world.
That means listening closely, testing carefully, and making decisions with long-term trust in mind. It also means respecting that photographers work in different ways and valuing flexibility instead of forcing a single approach. It’s important to us that we build the right product as a team with our users. We are committed to showing more of what we are working on earlier in the development process. This also means access to new prototype features for users who are interested in crafting the future with us.

ON1 isn’t about shortcuts or hype. It’s about creating a dependable editing environment that supports your workflow, adapts as your needs change, and earns its place as a tool you can rely on.

A Clearer Name for Our Most Complete Offering

As part of creating more clarity across the ON1 product lineup, we’re also updating the name of one of our offerings. In the coming weeks, ON1 Everything Plus will be rebranded as ON1 Photo Studio.

Over time, ON1 Everything Plus has grown into our most complete offering. The new name reflects that more clearly without changing what it stands for.

Photo Studio represents complete, professional-grade editing built around ON1 products, bringing together ON1 Photo RAW MAX, each of our individual titles, all major and minor updates to software, any new software titles, 1TB of Cloud Sync, full ON1 Plus access, and up to five activations, so photographers can work across multiple machines and workflows with confidence.

Nothing about our broader commitment changes. Choice remains central in how you purchase, how you use ON1, and how it fits into your workflow as your needs evolve. This update is simply about making things easier to understand.

What This Means for You

If you want software that improves without constantly changing how you work…
If you value control, consistency, and choice…
If you want tools that feel familiar, reliable, and built for the long term…

Then this is the future we’re building at ON1.

We are moving forward with a clear focus: steady improvement, thoughtful innovation, and long-term investment in tools photographers can trust.

If you chose ON1, you chose well and we’re committed to earning that trust for years to come.

Patrick Smith
Senior Vice President
ON1

Where your workflow finally feels right. You own Photo RAW. This is about trusting yourself when you use it.

If you own ON1 Photo RAW 2026, you already made a smart choice. But owning powerful software and feeling confident using it aren’t always the same thing. Most photographers don’t struggle because they lack tools. They can struggle because they’re unsure—unsure where to begin, unsure what really matters, unsure when an image is finished. The ON1 Photo RAW 2026 Outdoor Photography Conference was created for that moment—the one where uncertainty turns into clarity. You can register for the conference here.

Build Confidence when Using ON1 Photo RAW 2026

Photo RAW 2026 gives you depth, control, and creative freedom. What may take a little more understanding, is a workflow that feels natural.

If you’ve ever:

• Hesitated before making an adjustment
• Wondered if you’re pushing an edit too far—or not far enough
• Felt like your results depend on the image instead of your process
• You’re not behind. You’re just still building trust in your workflow

This conference exists to help that trust take shape by showing you how to approach an image from start to finish, so your workflow feels familiar, repeatable, and comfortable.

When the Workflow Clicks, Everything Changes

Confidence doesn’t come from knowing every tool. It comes from knowing why or what to do next with the tools you have. During the conference, ON1 educators will walk through real outdoor images—landscapes, wildlife, travel, urban scenes, macro, and environmental portraits—sharing how they see an image, how they decide what matters, and how they move from RAW file to finished photograph.

You’ll learn:

• How to slow down at the start and speed up overall
• How to make fewer, better decisions
• How to stop chasing sliders and start editing with intention

This is where editing begins to feel calm instead of uncertain—where you’re no longer guessing your way through an image, but making deliberate, confident decisions that move your work forward.

What You’ll Feel After the Conference

By the end of the conference, many photographers will notice something important shift.

• Editing feels lighter
• Decisions come easier
• Results feel more consistent—and more personal

You’ll walk away with:

• A workflow that makes sense to you
• More confidence across different types of outdoor photos
• Less second-guessing and more trust in your choices
• A stronger connection between what you saw and what you deliver

This is the difference between using Photo RAW 2026 and feeling at home when using it.

Choose the Experience That Fits You

Whether you want to ease in or go all in, there are options that meet you where you are:

Free Pass
A simple way to get started and build momentum.
Includes pre-conference access, the keynote, and the Photo RAW 2026 Foundations class.

Conference Pass — $59.99
For photographers ready to deepen their workflow.
Includes all classes across three days plus follow-along RAW files.

VIP Pass — $99.99
For photographers who want the complete experience.
Includes everything in the Conference Pass, plus class recordings, photo critiques, VIP-only sessions, image breakdowns, live Q&A, giveaways, and a look at what’s next.

It’s Time To Get to the Next Level with ON1 Photo RAW

This conference is designed to be focused and intentional—not overwhelming. It’s built to help you with making things finally click, so you can move forward with clarity instead of hesitation. If you want editing to feel more consistent, and more rewarding—this is meant for you. Where your software tools feel familiar, your decisions feel more confident, and your results feel like something you can trust.

The Outdoor Photography Conference is about taking your workflow one step further—building trust in yourself when you sit down to edit. Not by learning more features. But by developing clarity, confidence, and a workflow that finally feels like your own.

If you’re ready to turn the software you chose into work you truly trust, we’d love to have you join us.

Register now for the ON1 Photo RAW 2026 Outdoor Photography Conference

ON1 Effects 2026 is the fastest way to finish a photo—delivering professional results instantly, with the control photographers trust.

Today, we’re excited to announce the release of ON1 Effects 2026. Designed to deliver professional results instantly, ON1 Effects 2026 is the fastest and most intuitive way for photographers to apply creative finishing effects—whether used as a standalone application or as a photo effects software plugin for Lightroom Classic and Photoshop.

ON1 Effects has always focused on helping photographers easily bring images to a finished, professional state. Version 2026 advances that promise with pro-level AI, refined workflows, and new creative filters that deliver immediate results while preserving full creative control.

Pro-Level Results

At the core of ON1 Effects 2026 is a significant advancement in masking—one of the most important steps in creative photo editing. New Subject and Background Masks allow photographers to isolate key areas of an image with a single click. These AI-powered masks are fast, accurate, and dependable, even in complex scenes, removing uncertainty from one of the most common editing tasks.

Masking now works as a layered system, allowing multiple masks to be stacked on any filter or adjustment. Each mask can be edited independently and combined using add, subtract, or intersect modes—making it easy to refine results or build complex selections without restarting or disrupting creative momentum.

Mask quality has also been improved across AI-based tools, including depth masks and Super Select AI. Edges are cleaner and more natural, even around fine details such as hair, foliage, and tree branches. The result is fewer artifacts, less manual cleanup, and results that feel complete as soon as they are applied.

Faster Workflows, Thoughtfully Designed

ON1 Effects 2026 introduces workflow enhancements that help photographers move efficiently from image to final look. The updated Add Filter dialog allows users to favorite filters, search more effectively, hide rarely used or legacy tools, and apply filters with AI masks more easily.

With fewer decisions and faster access to essential tools, photographers spend less time navigating menus and more time finishing images.

New Effects Starting Points further simplify the experience. Photographers can choose a default layout built around their most-used filters or select a starting point that mirrors workflows from applications like Lightroom Classic or Capture One. Filters begin in an off state, allowing photographers to activate only what they need and build edits with intention rather than distraction.

New Creative Filters with Immediate Impact

ON1 Effects 2026 introduces four new creative filters, each designed to deliver meaningful visual impact quickly and intuitively:

• Depth Lighting Filter

  Adjust foreground and background lighting after capture using advanced depth masking to guide attention naturally.

• Split Field Filter

  Recreate the look of a split diopter to balance wide-angle landscapes by bringing distant backgrounds closer.

• Double Exposure Filter

  Create expressive double exposures without complex layers. Control blending, protect subjects, or generate organic results instantly.

• Motion Filter

  Add intentional camera movement—pan, zoom, or twist—to introduce energy and simplify busy backgrounds.

Built for Editing—and Re-Editing

ON1 Effects 2026 remains fully re-editable, even when used as a plugin, allowing photographers to revisit and refine effects without rebuilding edits.

Support for grayscale images enables proper viewing and editing of legacy scans and grayscale files, while UI enhancements offer more flexible panel docking for improved workspace efficiency—especially on laptops. New Module Tips help first-time users get oriented quickly, and export improvements deliver faster performance with easier preset management.

Expanded camera and lens support ensures compatibility with the latest equipment, alongside continued support for a wide range of legacy gear.

Price and Availability

ON1 Effects 2026 is available today. Additional information, including price, full feature details, and system requirements, are available here.

ON1 Effects 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions

What is ON1 Effects 2026?

ON1 Effects 2026 is professional photo effects software designed to help photographers quickly add creative finishing looks using presets, filters, and advanced AI-powered masking tools.

Who is ON1 Effects 2026 designed for?

ON1 Effects 2026 is ideal for new photographers, enthusiasts, and professionals who want fast, high-quality results without complex editing workflows.

Is ON1 Effects 2026 a standalone app or a plugin?

ON1 Effects 2026 works both as a standalone application and as a plugin for Adobe Lightroom Classic and Adobe Photoshop.

What’s new in ON1 Effects 2026?

New features include Subject and Background Masks, layer-based masking, improved mask quality, four new creative filters, workflow improvements, and expanded camera and lens support.

How do Subject and Background Masks work?

With one click, ON1 Effects 2026 automatically creates highly accurate masks for either the subject or background, saving time and reducing the need for manual selections.

What are Mask Layers in ON1 Effects 2026?

Mask Layers allow you to stack and combine multiple masks on a single filter or adjustment, making it easier to refine edits or correct mistakes without starting over.

What new filters are included in ON1 Effects 2026?

ON1 Effects 2026 introduces the Depth Lighting, Split Field, Double Exposure, and Motion filters, each designed to create impactful results quickly and intuitively.

Can I re-edit my effects later?

Yes. ON1 Effects 2026 is fully re-editable, even when used as a plugin, allowing you to return and adjust your effects at any time.

Does ON1 Effects 2026 support grayscale images?

Yes. ON1 Effects 2026 supports grayscale image mode, making it easier to view and edit legacy scans and grayscale photos.

Will ON1 Effects 2026 work with my camera and lenses?

ON1 Effects 2026 adds support for many new cameras and lenses, along with continued support for a wide range of existing and legacy equipment.

Is ON1 Effects 2026 beginner-friendly?

Yes. New Module Tips and improved workflows help first-time users get started quickly while still offering advanced controls for experienced photographers.

When is ON1 Effects 2026 available?

ON1 Effects 2026 is available starting January 15, 2026.

Is ON1 Effects 2026 included inside ON1 Photo RAW 2026?

Yes. If you own or are looking to purchase ON1 Effects 2026, you can purchase the individual app or purchase ON1 Photo RAW 2026.

What problem does ON1 Effects 2026 solve?

ON1 Effects 2026 helps photographers finish photos faster by delivering professional results instantly, without complex layers or time-consuming manual edits.

ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2 arrives today as a free update for all Photo RAW 2026 owners, delivering improvements that push ON1 forward as a leading Lightroom alternative and advanced raw photo editor. This update focuses on workflow speed, smarter AI results, and a smoother user experience across the board—making it easier than ever to get professional results with modern photo editing tools.

Whether you’re upgrading portraits with improved Face Restoration, exporting images faster, learning new modules with built-in guidance, or taking advantage of expanded camera and lens support, the 2026.2 update ensures your photo editing software works harder for you.

Improved Face Restoration — Sharper Details, Better Accuracy

The upgraded AI Face Restoration model inside Resize AI delivers noticeably better results for:

• Teeth, eyes, and glasses
• Smaller or distant faces
• Preserving natural texture and detail

Portrait photographers will see higher-quality outputs with fewer artifacts, especially when enhancing older images or low-resolution portraits.

Here’s a quick video Dylan Kotecki put together showing the new feature in action.

New Module Tips for Faster Learning

2026.2 introduces Module Tips, short onboarding dialogs that guide first-time users through each module. This makes ON1 Photo RAW easier to get up to speed for beginners while helping experienced users discover overlooked tools that speed up editing workflows.

Faster Exports + Easier Export Presets

Exporting is now faster and more responsive, especially for large raw files or batch jobs. Export presets have also been redesigned to be easier to create, organize, and apply—saving pros and high-volume shooters valuable time.

New Camera Support

ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2 adds RAW support for:

• Leica M EV1
• Sony FX 30

New Lens Profiles Added

Optical corrections are now available for the following lenses:

Canon:

• EF 20–35mm f/3.5–4.5 USM
• RF 10–20mm f/4L IS STM

Fujifilm:

• XF 16–50mm F2.8–4.8 R LM WR

Mamiya/Sekor:

• SX 55mm f/1.8

Minolta:

• MD 24mm f/2.8
• MD 45mm f/2

Nikon:

• Z 70–180mm f/2.8
• AF-S DX 55–200mm f/4–5.6G ED VR II

OM System:

• OM 12–100mm F4.0

Pentax:

• Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 400mm f/5.6
• smc Pentax-M 28mm f/2.8
• HD PENTAX-D FA 21mm F2.4 ED Limited DC WR

Other brands:

• Auto Petri 55mm f/1.8
• TTArtisan E 23mm f/1.8
• Tamron AF 18–400mm f/3.5–6.3 Di II VC HLD
• Viltrox 15mm f/1.7 E
• Yashica ML 55mm f/4 Macro
• Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* 180mm f/2.8 MMJ

Stability Improvements and General Refinements

This release continues ON1’s commitment to quality with better stability, UI polish, and bug fixes across the app. These refinements improve responsiveness and deliver a smoother experience day-to-day.

Generative AI Tools on macOS
A subset of macOS users who updated to macOS Tahoe 26.1 may notice slower Generative AI tools in Photo RAW, including Generative Erase and Generative Crop. Apple’s system changes disabled the usual GPU/NPU acceleration, and both this 2026.2 update and our 2026.1 workaround restores correct results but still processes more slowly. This issue affects multiple developers—not just ON1. We’re working with Apple on a fix and will share updates as soon as we have them. We will continue to post updates around this specific on our Facebook page, make sure to follow us.

What’s Ahead for ON1 Photo RAW

ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2 is just another step in our ongoing work to keep making Photo RAW better. We’re also working on improving the raw processing so your photos look better and you can edit faster. We’ll continue to innovate by adding new features that make everyday editing simpler and more efficient. Over the next year, you’ll also see updates more often, so improvements and fixes reach you sooner based on your feedback. As we add more tools, our goal stays the same: give you outstanding results while keeping you in control, so Photo RAW remains a tool you can trust and rely on for your work.

How to Get the Free Update

If you own ON1 Photo RAW 2026, the 2026.2 update is completely free.

You can update it in two ways:

• Inside Photo RAW — go to Help > Check for Updates.
• From your ON1 Account — download the latest version from your products page.

Pricing & Availability

If you haven’t updated yet, download 2026.2 today. Ready to purchase? Get the latest pricing here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2 a free update?

Yes. ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2 is a completely free update for all Photo RAW 2026 owners. You can install it through the in-app updater or download it from your ON1 account.

What are the main new features in ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2?

Photo RAW 2026.2 adds an improved Face Restoration AI model in Resize, helpful Module Tips dialogs for first-time users, faster export performance with easier-to-use presets, expanded camera and lens support, and general stability and performance refinements.

How was Face Restoration improved in ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2?

The updated Face Restoration AI model in Resize generates better results for teeth and glasses, handles smaller faces more reliably, and produces more natural, detailed portraits when upscaling or restoring images.

What are Module Tips in ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2?

Module Tips are new onboarding dialogs that appear the first time you visit a module. They briefly explain what the module does and show you how to get started, helping new and existing users learn the tools faster.

How has export been improved in ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2?

Exporting in Photo RAW 2026.2 is faster and more responsive, especially for large jobs. Export presets are easier to create, organize, and reuse, making it quicker to deliver consistent results across multiple images and projects.

Which new cameras are supported in the 2026.2 update?

ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2 adds RAW support for the Leica M EV1 and Sony FX 30, so files from these cameras now open and process correctly in the app.

Which new lenses have profiles in ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2?

The update adds profiles for lenses from Canon, Fujifilm, Mamiya/Sekor, Minolta, Nikon, OM System, Pentax, TTArtisan, Tamron, Viltrox, Yashica, and Carl Zeiss, covering a wide range of primes, zooms, and legacy lenses.

What stability and performance improvements are included in 2026.2?

ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2 includes general stability fixes, reliability improvements, and interface refinements across the app, delivering a smoother and more consistent editing experience.

What is the status of Generative AI performance on macOS Tahoe 26.1 and later?

A subset of macOS users may experience slower Generative AI tools due to changes in macOS Tahoe 26.1. The 2026.1 workaround restores correct results but runs on the CPU, leading to slower processing. This issue affects multiple developers and is tied to system-level changes. ON1 is actively working with Apple and exploring internal improvements but does not yet have an ETA for a full fix.

How do I install the ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2 update?

You can install ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2 by using the Check for Updates option inside the app, or by downloading the latest installer from your ON1 account on the website.

A new ON1 Photo RAW 2026 update is here, version 2026.1. Built on what photographers love about our AI photo editing software, this free update for all 2026 owners brings faster AI masking tools, cleaner menus, and more creative control. Whether you use ON1 as your main RAW photo editor or as a powerful Lightroom alternative, the new 2026.1 improvements make your photo editing workflow smoother, smarter, and more intuitive. From upgraded Mask Layers and 20+ new Styles to new camera support and critical fixes, this update is designed to help you edit with confidence from the moment you launch it.

Owners of Photo RAW 2026 can download the update from their account.

What’s New in ON1 Photo RAW 2026.1

Mask Layer Improvements for Faster, Smarter Editing

We took your feedback and made Mask Layers easier, clearer, and faster to use—especially during non-destructive editing.

Here’s what’s new:

• Paste an inverted mask in a single step—a huge time saver for complex masks.
• New add, subtract, and intersect icons that make mask modes instantly recognizable.
• Cleaner, streamlined menus so the most important masking options are always easy to reach.
• General bug fixes to keep your masking workflow stable and predictable.

If you rely on ON1’s advanced AI masking tools, this update makes them even more better.

20+ New Styles for ON1’s Latest Effects Filters

The newest Effects filters—Depth Lighting, Motion, Split Field, and Double Exposure—now come with 20+ modern, ready-to-use Styles.

These Styles help you:

• Build standout looks faster
• Explore new creative directions
• Apply consistent finishing across multiple images

It’s a quick way to level up your editing, whether you’re a hobbyist or a working pro using ON1 as your professional photo editor. Here’s is a sample of some of the new styles included in this update.

Easier Feedback — Tell Us What You Want Next

We made it even easier to share ideas directly from inside the app.

• Just open the Help menu → Feedback

Your suggestions shape ON1’s roadmap, including the improvements in this release.

New Camera Support Added

Photo RAW 2026.1 includes full support for the latest releases from Canon, Fujifilm, and Sony:

• Canon EOS R6 III
• Fujifilm X-T30 III
• Sony FX2

Your RAW files from these cameras now open, process, and render with full compatibility inside ON1.

Pricing & Availability

ON1 Photo RAW 2026.1 builds on what photographers love most: performance, control, reliability, and creative freedom. With improved masking, new Styles, updated camera support, and key fixes, this is one of the most polished updates yet—and it’s free for all 2026 owners. To get the update, owners can download it from their ON1 account.

If you haven’t updated yet, download 2026.1 today and experience a faster, smarter, and more inspiring way to edit. Ready to purchase? Get the latest pricing here.

Coming Next Month — and Yes, It’s Another Free Update

We’re rolling out new Face Restoration AI models in Resize AI, expanded camera support, a smoother startup user experience, smarter caching, and dozens of refinements and fixes that make everything faster, cleaner, and more fun to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ON1 Photo RAW 2026.1 a free update?

Yes. ON1 Photo RAW 2026.1 is a completely free update for all Photo RAW 2026 owners. You can download it from your ON1 account.

What improvements were made to Mask Layers in 2026.1?

Photo RAW 2026.1 introduces clearer add, subtract, and intersect icons, cleaner menus, and the ability to paste an inverted mask in a single step. These updates make masking faster, more intuitive, and easier to control.

What new creative Styles were added in ON1 Photo RAW 2026.1?

The update includes over 20 new Styles for Depth Lighting, Motion, Split Field, and Double Exposure. These Styles offer fresh, modern looks you can apply instantly to enhance your edits.

Which new cameras are supported in the 2026.1 update?

Photo RAW 2026.1 adds full support for the Canon EOS R6 III, Fujifilm X-T30 III, and Sony FX2. RAW files from these cameras will now open and process correctly in the app.