PRESS RELEASE
Photomizer 4 embeds machine-readable AI training opt-out directly into images
New feature in Premium and Ultimate editions marks photos according to open standards – cryptographically signed, verifiable, and entirely local
Dortmund, September 30, 2026 – Engelmann Software is expanding Photomizer 4 with a machine-readable AI usage opt-out. The Premium and Ultimate editions automatically embed the clear declaration "AI training not permitted" into photos upon saving. This information is stored directly within the image file according to open standards, is cryptographically signed, and can be verified using compatible content credential tools.
The new feature is pre-selected every time you save. Users who do not wish to use this labeling can deactivate the default setting in the program options at any time. All processing steps take place locally on the computer. Images are neither uploaded nor transmitted to any external service for this purpose.
Since Photomizer does not inject interference patterns or noise filters into the photo, its visual appearance remains unchanged.
CLEAR DECLARATION OF RIGHTS INSTEAD OF SUPPOSED TECHNICAL LOCKS
With the AI usage opt-out, Engelmann Software is pursuing a different approach than methods that aim to confuse AI systems via barely visible changes to the image. Photomizer does not attempt to make the technical processing of a photo impossible. Instead, the program documents the rights holder's decision in a standardized, machine-readable format directly within the file.
"A filter cannot provide a reliable guarantee against the unauthorized use of an image. What matters is a clear and verifiable declaration from the rights holder. It is precisely this declaration that Photomizer binds directly to the photo upon saving," explains Tim Stoepler of Engelmann Software.
For labeling, Photomizer utilizes, among other things, IPTC/PLUS data mining metadata as well as the CAWG Training and Data Mining Assertion within signed C2PA content credentials. This allows the file to inform compatible systems that its use for AI and ML training is not permitted.
The cryptographic signature also makes it possible to verify the origin of the declaration and detect any subsequent tampering with the signed information.
MACHINE-READABLE OPT-OUT WITH LEGAL SIGNIFICANCE
Section 44b (3) of the German Copyright Act stipulates that a usage opt-out for works accessible online must be declared in a machine-readable form.
Furthermore, the EU AI Act obliges providers of general-purpose AI models to implement a policy to comply with European copyright law. This must be specifically geared towards identifying and respecting corresponding usage opt-outs from rights holders.
Photomizer translates these requirements into a simple workflow: the usage opt-out is bound to the image directly during the saving process. No additional programs, user accounts, or image uploads are required.
NO TECHNICAL COPY PROTECTION
The AI usage opt-out cannot prevent metadata from being stripped or images from being used unlawfully. The feature is therefore expressly not to be understood as a technical copy protection mechanism.
However, it creates clear, standardized, and verifiable documentation of the stated terms of use. Rights holders can thus record in a machine-readable way that their photos must not be used for the development and training of AI models.
INCLUDED IN PREMIUM – FREE FOR EXISTING CUSTOMERS
The AI usage opt-out is a component of Photomizer 4 Premium and Photomizer 4 Ultimate.
All existing customers of these two editions will receive the new feature for free via the corresponding product update. No new purchase is necessary.
Photomizer 4 is available for Windows 10 and 11, macOS on Apple Silicon and Intel systems, and Linux. The software is offered as a one-time purchase without a subscription.
For more information:
ABOUT ENGELMANN SOFTWARE
Based in Dortmund, Engelmann Software develops software for photos, multimedia, data recovery, and PC security. The applications are aimed at users who want powerful features without complicated operation.
Photomizer 4 combines automatic image optimization, classic photo tools, and locally executed AI functions in a cross-platform application.
PRESS CONTACT
Engelmann Software GmbH
Menglinghauser Straße 378
44227 Dortmund
Germany
E-mail: office@engelmann.com
Web: https://engelmann.com/
