Boris FX has released Optics 2026.5, a significant update to its standalone and plugin-based digital photography effects suite that introduces AI-powered facial masking. This new release automates complex skin retouching and portrait enhancement tasks by leveraging machine learning to isolate facial features, allowing photographers and editors to apply selective adjustments without manual rotoscoping.
How AI-Powered Facial Masking Works in Optics 2026.5
The core addition to the 2026.5 update is an AI-driven mask generator specifically trained for portraiture. According to official release notes from Boris FX, the software can now automatically detect and segment eyes, teeth, lips, and skin.
Previously, users required frame-by-frame manual masking or complex color-range selections to isolate skin tones for retouching. The new AI module generates these masks instantly, enabling non-destructive adjustments to specific facial regions. This integration allows users to apply filters—such as the suite’s signature Glow, Beauty, or Color Grade effects—only to the skin while leaving the eyes and hair untouched.
Key Improvements in the 2026.5 Release
Beyond the AI masking capabilities, the update addresses performance and workflow efficiency. Boris FX has optimized the underlying engine to handle higher-resolution files more fluidly, a necessary change as sensor resolutions in modern mirrorless cameras continue to climb.
The update also includes:
- Expanded Plugin Compatibility: Improved stability for users running the suite as a plugin within Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and standalone workflows.
- Enhanced Filter Presets: New library additions designed to leverage the precision of the new facial masks, specifically for portrait and fashion photography.
- Performance Scaling: Reduced latency when applying multiple effects stacks to high-bit-depth images.
Why Facial Masking Matters for Professional Workflows
The shift toward AI-assisted masking reflects a broader trend in post-production software, where automation is replacing repetitive manual labor. Historically, photographers relied on complex layers and channel mixing to achieve professional-grade skin smoothing. By automating the segmentation process, Boris FX is positioning Optics to compete more directly with the rapid, AI-centric editing tools found in Adobe’s Creative Cloud ecosystem.
When compared to traditional manual masking, this automated approach reduces the time required for high-end portrait retouching by an estimated 40% to 60% for standard edits. While manual touch-ups remain necessary for complex restoration or extreme close-ups, the AI handles the bulk of the “busy work,” leaving the artist to focus on the final aesthetic choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the AI masking feature available for video?
Optics 2026.5 is primarily designed for still photography. While the underlying Boris FX technology is often shared with the Continuum suite for video, the specific AI facial masking in this release is optimized for static image workflows.
Does this update require a new subscription?
Boris FX offers Optics through both perpetual licenses and subscription models. Existing users with an active upgrade and support plan can access the 2026.5 update as part of their current agreement.
Can the AI masks be manually adjusted?
Yes. According to the company, the generated masks act as standard masks within the Optics interface. Users can refine, soften, or expand the AI-generated selections using the software’s existing brush and shape tools to ensure precision in challenging lighting conditions.