Adobe has released PhotoShop Express, a basic version of Photoshop which is available to use online.

The maker of the popular photo-editing software Photoshop on Thursday launched a basic version available for free online.

San Jose, Calif.-based Adobe Systems Inc. says it hopes to boost its name recognition among a new generation of consumers who edit, store and share photos online.

While Photoshop is designed for trained professionals, Adobe says Photoshop Express, which it launched in a “beta” test version, is easier to learn. User comments will be taken into account for future upgrades.

Photoshop Express will be completely Web-based so consumers can use it with any type of computer, operating system and browser. And, once they register, users can get to their accounts from different computers. (link)

I just signed up, and it seems like an easy-to-use basic photo editing service. It features some integration with the online album services of Picasa, Facebook, and Photobucket, with the notable absence of Flickr. I assume this may be due in part with Flickr’s relationship with Picnik, likely my favorite online photo editor.

It will be interesting to see how well this product is received and how quickly it will bring in new features. Obviously Adobe has name value in software market, but there are many services online including Picnik, PhotoFlexer, Flauntr, Pixenate, LunaPic, Phixr, Pixer …