In this article, we explain how to replace the background of an existing design with a transparent background. The instructions are for the Android version of Photoroom.
If you're creating a new design from scratch and want a transparent background, see the instructions in Create a design with a transparent background.
Note: If you're using the iOS or Web App versions of Photoroom, follow the instructions in these articles:
On Android
To replace the background in an existing design with a transparent background:
Select the Space you want to work in.
Select Content.
Select the design you want to edit.
Select Layers.
Make sure that the background layer contains the background and other layers contain the foreground.
Note: If a design has an AI Background, the background layer has the entire image, including the foreground object. But there should also be a separate layer that also contains the foreground object.
If your image has the background on one layer and foreground objects on separate layers, select Done to close the Layer settings. Continue from step 6.
If your entire image is on a single layer, you will need to export it as an image and then re-import it. For details, see the troubleshooting information at the end of this article.
Select the Background layer.
Select Erase.
Photoroom erases the background layer so that it is empty. Visually, this has the same effect as applying a transparent background.
[Optional] Use the editor to make further changes, such as add text, shadows, graphics, and more.
To learn about the editor settings, see the articles in these collections:
Select Export.
Photoroom saves your design and exports it as an image file to your device's camera roll.
[Optional] Use the export settings to share the design.
To learn more about the export feature, see Export a design.
Select Done.
Troubleshooting transparent backgrounds (Android)
If transparency is not working for your design, it is likely because your entire image is made up of layers that cover the background layer. So when you edit the background layer, you can't see the changes.
How can you check what is on each layer?
Open your design in the editor.
Select Layers and then select the layer of interest.
What if your entire image is on one layer? Is there a fix?
Yes! Follow the steps below:
Display the design that has the entire image on one layer.
Export the design as an image file.
Import the image file and let Photoroom remove the background during the import process. Do not select Skip background removal.
Select the Transparent template from the Classics category.
You now have the foreground object on one layer and a transparent background on another layer.
Note: For detailed instructions for steps 3 and 4, see Create a design with a transparent background.

