How to remove an image background on iPhone
To remove an image background on iPhone, open Lessr, add a photo, and choose Remove Background. Lessr automatically detects the main subject and clears out everything behind it, right on your device. You can keep the background transparent or replace it with a solid color, then save it as a PNG or HEIC with no uploads and no account.
How to remove an image background
- Open Lessr and choose Remove Background.
- Add a photo from your library or the Files app.
- Let Lessr automatically detect the subject and remove everything behind it.
- Choose a background — keep it transparent or pick a color — and fine-tune the edge, shadow, or outline.
- Save the result as PNG or HEIC to Files or Photos, or share it directly.
Supported formats
Input: Photos: JPEG, HEIC, PNG, WebP.
Output: Photos: PNG or HEIC — both keep a transparent background.
PNG and HEIC can keep a transparent background, so the area behind your subject stays see-through. JPG isn't offered here because it can't store transparency.
What you can adjust
- Background fill: Transparent, White, Black, or a custom color
- Edge softness: soften the cutout edge for a cleaner blend
- Cutout size: slightly expand or shrink the cutout
- Drop shadow: None, Subtle, Medium, or Strong
- Outline: add an optional outline around the subject
- Crop: crop tightly to the subject
When to use Remove Background
Clean product photos
Put products on a plain white or transparent background for online listings, so every item looks consistent and tidy.
Profile pictures
Cut yourself out of a busy photo for a clean profile picture or avatar, then keep it transparent or drop in any color you like.
Stickers and cut-outs
Turn a subject into a transparent sticker or cut-out you can paste into messages, documents, or collages.
Put a subject on a new background
Lift a subject out of one photo and place it onto a different background of your choice.
Tips
- Photos with a clear, distinct subject give the cleanest cut-out. If Lessr can't find a subject, try a photo with a sharper foreground.
- Keep the background transparent if you plan to drop the subject onto something else later, or pick a solid color if you want a finished image.
- Add a subtle drop shadow or an outline to help the subject stand out against a new background.
Frequently asked questions
Does removing the background change my original photo?
No. Lessr saves a new file with the background removed and leaves your original photo untouched.
Can I make the background transparent?
Yes. Choose the Transparent fill and save as PNG or HEIC — both keep the see-through background.
Why can't I save the result as a JPG?
JPG can't store a transparent background, so Lessr saves as PNG or HEIC instead to keep the area behind your subject clear.
Is anything uploaded to the internet?
No. Lessr removes backgrounds entirely on your iPhone or iPad — nothing is uploaded and no account is needed.
How many photos can I do for free?
The free version removes backgrounds from 2 photos a day, one at a time. Pro removes the daily limit and adds batch processing.
What if it can't find a subject?
Remove Background works best on a photo with a clear, distinct subject. If it can't find one, it asks you to try a photo with a clearer foreground.
Remove Background runs entirely on your iPhone or iPad — no uploads, no account, no ads.
Download Lessr on the App Store