ColorStrokes

ColorStrokes, developed by Skylum (formerly Macphun), remains a specialized utility in the 2026 creative landscape, focusing on the high-precision art of selective desaturation. Unlike broad generative AI tools, ColorStrokes utilizes localized edge-detection algorithms to allow users to isolate specific chromatic ranges within a photograph while converting the remaining environment to grayscale or sepia. Its technical architecture is optimized for macOS and iOS, leveraging Core Image frameworks to ensure near-zero latency during brush strokes. While the industry has shifted towards automated AI masking, ColorStrokes' competitive edge lies in its manual control granularity, offering professional photographers a tactile approach to 'Color Splash' effects that automated systems often over-soften at the edges. The 2026 version maintains compatibility with the latest silicon architecture, providing a streamlined workflow for social media content creators, wedding photographers, and digital artists who require high-contrast, emotive imagery without the overhead of full-suite creative cloud subscriptions. It serves as a dedicated 'single-purpose' powerhouse that integrates seamlessly with the Apple Photos ecosystem via extensions.