How to Remove the Background From a Photo on iPhone (Free, Built-In)

Need a product photo on a white background, a profile picture, or a WhatsApp sticker? Since iOS 16, iPhone can isolate the subject of a photo in one gesture, for free.

Lift the subject

1. Open the photo in Photos.
2. Press and hold the person, animal or object. A glowing outline appears.
3. Release and choose Copy, Share or Add Sticker.

You can also drag the lifted subject directly into another app (Messages, Notes, WhatsApp) with a second finger.

Save as a transparent PNG

1. Lift the subject and tap Share.
2. Choose Save to Files: the image is saved as a PNG with a transparent background.

Some versions offer Save Image directly to Photos, also with transparency.

Create stickers

Tap Add Sticker: the subject joins your stickers in the emoji keyboard and Messages. You can add effects (outline, comic, puffy, shiny).

Tips for good results

• A clear contrast between subject and background.
• Good lighting, a sharp photo.
• Works also on videos when paused and on screenshots.

For small businesses

Photograph your products, lift them, and paste them on a clean background in a free design app. Perfect for WhatsApp Business catalogs: WhatsApp Business on iPhone.

It does not work?

• Requires iPhone XS or later and iOS 16 or later.
• Update iOS: iOS 27.0.1.

Related: copy text from photos, best camera settings.