After seven years of development, the GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP) team has released GIMP 3.0, a significant update to the popular open-source image editor. This major release brings a host of new features, performance improvements, and modernized functionality.
The most notable change is the transition to the GTK3 graphical user interface library, replacing GTK2. This upgrade modernizes the user interface, improves performance, and provides a more responsive user experience. GIMP 3.0 also introduces non-destructive editing for many common filters, allowing real-time previews directly on the canvas.
Key Enhancements in GIMP 3.0
Addressing long-standing user requests, GIMP 3.0 now supports multi-layer selection. This simplifies complex editing workflows, enabling users to move, transform, or apply effects to multiple layers simultaneously. Text handling has also been significantly improved. Users can now apply styles like outlines, shadows, and bevels while retaining the ability to edit text content, change fonts, and adjust sizes.
Curves Non-destructive filter being applied to a portrait
Improved compatibility and performance are key features of this release. Wayland support on Linux systems provides better integration with modern display servers, resulting in a smoother experience. HiDPI support delivers sharper visuals on high-resolution displays, and enhanced Wacom tablet integration benefits digital artists.
Expanded Plugin Ecosystem and File Format Support
GIMP 3.0 expands its plugin ecosystem with support for extensions written in Python 3, JavaScript, Lua, and Vala, offering developers more flexibility. File format compatibility has also been broadened, including support for BC7 DDS files and improved PSD export capabilities, simplifying cross-platform collaboration. The development team has also emphasized improved color management in this release.
Availability and Future Development
GIMP 3.0 is available for GNU/Linux, macOS, and Windows and can be downloaded from the official GIMP website. The GIMP team plans to accelerate the release cycle for the 3.X series, with GIMP 3.2 expected within a year. The focus is on more frequent updates, even with fewer features per release, ensuring users receive improvements and enhancements more quickly.
