Microsoft Launches Largest Update for Paint Program in Years

SadaNews - The long-standing "Paint" application from "Microsoft" is experiencing a significant leap beyond being just a simple drawing tool; it has received a new update for "Windows 11" users that brings it closer to the level of professional editing software while maintaining its accustomed ease of use.

Editable "project files"

The most notable aspect of the update is the introduction of a new "Project File" format. For decades, "Paint" users have only been able to save images in common formats like "PNG" or "JPEG," which flatten the image and lose layers, making it impossible to modify its elements later.

Now, it's possible to save work in the "paint" format, which retains all layers and edits as they are. When the file is opened later, all layers and all edits will be exactly as you left them. This feature, similar to what "Photoshop" offers through the "PSD" format, is now available within the free application integrated with "Windows".

This feature is currently available for users of preview versions of "Windows 11" under the "Canary" and "Dev" channels, and "Microsoft" has not specified a precise date for its release to everyone, but it is expected to arrive in one of the upcoming updates after testing is completed.

A slider for controlling transparency

In addition to "Project Files," "Microsoft" has added a slider to control the transparency of the pen and brush tools. This slider is located next to the usual size adjustment tool, allowing users to adjust the transparency level of each brush stroke in real time. Reducing transparency produces lighter and softer lines, enabling shading effects or color layers that were previously difficult to achieve.

This update continues the series of ongoing updates for the "Paint" program. In 2023, "Microsoft" added support for layers and transparency, paving the way for the new project file feature. In 2024, it introduced the AI-based "Cocreator" tool, which allows users to create images based on textual descriptions directly within the application. These additions combine the past and present, making "Paint" an advanced editing tool that the average user, student, or small business owner can rely on to accomplish quick tasks without the need for complex software.

Part of a broader update for "Windows"

The changes are not limited to "Paint." The same updates have included other core applications in "Windows"; the "Snipping Tool" has gained the ability to edit screenshots before saving, while "Notepad" has acquired enhanced AI capabilities such as "Summarizing," "Writing," and "Rewriting" for "Copilot+" devices without the need for a separate subscription.

Why is this update important?

"Paint" represents a familiar and easily accessible program for millions worldwide. Thanks to the project files and more advanced drawing tools, "Microsoft" is narrowing the gap between it and paid editing programs, providing users with greater capabilities for editing images and creating graphics without complexity.

Although "Paint" will not replace "Photoshop" for complex professional tasks, it is now capable of handling many daily tasks, from designing social media posts to preparing educational projects, with greater flexibility and no additional cost.

How to try it

Anyone who joins the "Windows 11 Insider" program can try the new features today by updating the system and application to the latest version in the "Canary" or "Dev" channels (version 11.2508.361.0 or newer). If feedback is positive, "Microsoft" is expected to roll out these improvements to all "Windows 11" users soon.