Photoshop January 2026 Update: 5 New Features Including Grain and Clarity Adjustment Layers

Photoshop's January 2026 update brings five significant features that streamline common editing tasks. The highlight is new adjustment layers for grain and clarity effects, eliminating the need to work in Camera Raw for these adjustments.

The update also introduces an improved generative AI model with higher resolution output and enhanced reference image capabilities, plus a more effective Remove Tool for cleaner object removal.

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Practical Tips

Here are key techniques for working with these new features:

• Use clipping masks with the grain adjustment layer to limit effects to specific elements like logos or design components
• Create gradient masks on clarity and dehaze layers to selectively apply effects only where needed
• Choose "Firefly Fill and Expand" from the models menu for higher resolution generative results up to 2K
• When using reference images, select "object" to automatically remove backgrounds or "whole image" to include surroundings
• Always work with the Remove Tool on a new layer to maintain non-destructive editing capabilities

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