A few months ago Google purchased Nik Software and I was initially left scratching my head. The deal made more sense when it was suggested the main reason was the Snapseed app Nik had developed for iOS devices. It was seen as an answer to Facebook purchasing Instagram.

At the time, I even gave Three Big Reasons for Google to Buy Corel and Some Small Ones. If Corel or Google are talking, it would be news to me. Yet many deals of that sort are somewhat of a surprise when they are announced.

The big announcement for now is that Snapseed is now available on many different platforms. If you are using either an Android or iOS device, you can download the app for free. A desktop version is available for both Mac and Windows for $19.95. Rather than me trying to explain all the features, go to the Snapseed Web site to learn all about it.

I think you’ll find the filters offered are much more geared towards photographers than those available in Instagram. Of course, it is also more closely linked to Google+ since it is a Google product. That doesn’t mean you have to use Google+, it is just easy if you choose to use it.

I’ve had the mobile version for a couple of days and have played with a few of the filters. I haven’t gotten the desktop version yet, but it will probably be something I order in the next few days. With all the cool effects it provides, it is something I definitely want!