Microsoft is bringing the power of AI to your everyday Windows 11 apps, starting with a significant upgrade to the classic Paint application. As detailed in the Windows Insiders Blog, new AI features are currently in testing, aiming to enhance the user experience. While there’s no official release date yet, these features promise a revolutionary approach to image editing.
One of the most exciting additions is “generative fill.” This AI-powered tool allows users to add new elements to an image simply by selecting an area and providing a text prompt. Imagine wanting to add a castle to your drawing; simply select the area, type “castle,” and click “Create.” The AI will generate and insert a castle image into your selected area. If the initial result isn’t perfect, you can easily request the AI to generate another option.
The Generative fill AI image editing feature in Microsoft Paint.
Another impressive AI-driven feature is “generative erase.” This tool simplifies removing unwanted background elements. Just brush over the object you want to remove, and the AI will intelligently erase it, leaving a clean and polished image. Initially, however, the generative fill feature will only be available on Copilot+ PCs equipped with Snapdragon CPUs and powerful NPUs (Neural Processing Units), a requirement for these computationally intensive AI tasks. This unfortunately limits access for users with standard Windows 11 PCs.
Earlier this year, Paint introduced its first AI feature, “Cocreator,” coinciding with the discontinuation of Paint 3D. This signaled Microsoft’s commitment to integrating AI capabilities into the core Paint experience.
Microsoft is proceeding cautiously with these new features, particularly given the recent issues surrounding “Recall.” The company plans to carefully monitor user feedback before a wider rollout, ensuring a smooth and effective integration for all users. While these AI features are still in early access, they point to a future where even simple applications like Paint can leverage the power of AI to offer sophisticated image editing capabilities. The combination of generative fill and erase provides an accessible way for users to enhance and refine their images, potentially transforming Paint from a basic drawing tool into a powerful creative platform.
