Microsoft Rolls Out Exciting AI Features in Windows 11 Paint and Notepad

In a significant leap for its Windows 11 operating system, Microsoft has begun rolling out exciting new artificial intelligence features in its Paint and Notepad applications. This development follows the company’s announcement of a detailed roadmap for next-generation AI experiences last October. The newly introduced elements aim to enhance user engagement with these essential tools, signaling Microsoft’s commitment to integrating advanced technologies into everyday tasks.

The AI enhancements included in this rollout are currently available for testers using the Canary and Dev Channels. Users can expect to see three groundbreaking features: AI rewriting capabilities in Notepad, alongside Generative Fill and Generative Erase options in Paint. While many may already be familiar with Generative Erase from the Photos app, the new functionality in Paint works similarly, allowing users to highlight an area of an image they wish to delete. This tool intelligently fills in the surrounding background, simplifying the photo editing process and making it more user-friendly, especially for minor touch-ups or corrections.

On the other hand, Generative Fill introduces a captivating innovation. Previously, Paint allowed users to create a 1024×1024 image that could be layered onto existing artwork. However, other elements often lacked cohesion with the underlying scene. Now with Generative Fill, users can outline a region within an image using the Selection Tool, and the AI will fill it with art that blends naturally with the surrounding content. This advancement paves the way for enhanced creativity and seamless graphics design, particularly for users who enjoy crafting unique visuals without extensive expertise.

Microsoft has also focused on improving performance by optimizing its Cocreator tool, making it faster by utilizing local neural processing units (NPUs). However, note that Generative Fill will initially be available exclusively for Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, whereas the Generative Erase function is set to be accessible to all Windows Insider participants.

While the tools offered by other programs, like Photoshop, may also provide generative functions, it is worth noting that Paint’s simplicity, coupled with its zero-cost accessibility, makes it an attractive option for casual users and hobbyists.

Notepad is not left behind in this AI-centric upgrade. The refreshed Notepad now features AI assistance to help users effectively alter the tone and length of their notes, providing a helpful touch for those looking to refine their writing without needing it to compose original content for them. The updates are found in Paint version 11.2410.28.0 and Notepad version 11.2410.15.0, respectively, highlighting Microsoft’s continued effort to enhance user experiences in their software suite.

As these advancements roll out, they mark a significant step in Microsoft’s ongoing journey to integrate AI technologies into mainstream applications, promising to empower users with more robust creative and productivity tools. With these exciting developments, Windows 11 users can look forward to a more streamlined and innovative computing experience.