How to remove the background on iPhone and iPad
iPhone and iPad can lift the subject of a photo on their own. Sometimes you need a file with a transparent background. This guide covers both ways.
Way 1: the built-in Photos feature
iOS can lift the subject of a photo:
- Open the photo in the Photos app.
- Touch and hold the subject until a glowing outline appears.
- Tap Copy, Share or Add Sticker.
This way works well for a quick sticker in Messages. It has limits:
- You do not choose the file format or the size.
- You need extra steps to get a file for a cutting machine or a printer.
Way 2: a transparent PNG with Vectorize Image
- Open Vectorize Image and tap Remove background.
- Pick the photo or take a new one.
- Wait a few seconds. AI cuts out the subject.
- Touch and hold the eye button to compare the result with the original.
- Tap Save or share and save the PNG.
The PNG keeps the transparent background. Design apps, cutting apps and printers read it as is.
What to do with the cutout
The app keeps your last result ready for the next tool:
- Image to vector turns the cutout into a color SVG.
- Trace turns it into a one-color SVG for vinyl or a stencil.
On iPad, drag the cutout straight into Keynote, Notes or another app.
Tips for a clean cutout
- Use a photo where the subject is in focus.
- Leave some space around the subject.
- Pick a background with a different color than the subject.
Keep the transparency when you share
Some messengers replace transparency with white. Send the PNG as a file, not as a photo. Or save it to Files and share it from there.
