Microsoft Elevates Paint and Notepad with AI-Powered Features

Microsoft has unveiled a game-changing update by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into two of its most iconic applications: Paint and Notepad. With Windows 11 leading the charge, these AI upgrades aim to bring modern functionality to these longstanding programs, enhancing creativity and productivity for millions of users.  

Let’s delve into the new AI-powered features and what they mean for users.  

AI in Paint: Generative Fill and Generative Erase

One of the standout updates is the infusion of generative AI into Paint. Introduced nearly four decades ago, Paint is now being revitalized with cutting-edge features that cater to modern user needs:  

1. Generative Fill:  

This feature enables users to modify or enhance images using simple text prompts. For instance, users can highlight a section of an image, describe the addition they want (e.g., "add a medieval castle"), and watch the AI seamlessly blend the new element into the existing image.  

This functionality is a boon for artists, designers, and casual users looking for quick and creative modifications. However, it is currently exclusive to Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, signaling Microsoft's focus on optimizing the feature for specific hardware.  

2. Generative Erase:  

Say goodbye to unwanted objects in images. Generative Erase uses AI to remove selected objects and intelligently fills the surrounding area to make it appear untouched. Whether it’s erasing photobombers or removing distracting elements, this feature is a game-changer for anyone working with visuals.  

Expanding Paint's Existing AI Features

Microsoft isn't stopping with these additions. The company is also improving the performance of existing AI capabilities in Paint, such as Cocreator and Image Creator, ensuring users have a comprehensive suite of creative tools at their disposal.  

AI in Notepad: Rewriting Made Easy

Notepad, the trusted text editor known for its simplicity, is receiving a significant AI boost with the new Rewrite feature.  

What is Rewrite? 

The Rewrite feature allows users to rephrase sentences, adjust tone, and modify text length effortlessly. Whether crafting a formal email or simplifying complex text, Rewrite offers multiple variations, enabling users to choose the one that fits their needs best.  

This feature is especially useful for writers, students, and professionals who frequently work with text.  

Improved Performance: 

In addition to the AI upgrades, Microsoft has optimized Notepad’s launch performance. According to the company, most users will experience a 35% faster launch time, with some seeing improvements of over 55%.  

How These Features Boost Productivity

Microsoft's updates to Paint and Notepad are not just about new features; they represent a broader shift in how traditional tools can adapt to modern demands:  

1. For Creatives: 

The AI tools in Paint enable users to execute complex tasks, like adding or removing image elements, in seconds. This makes Paint a viable option for quick edits and brainstorming, especially for those who lack access to advanced design software.  

2. For Professionals:

Notepad’s Rewrite feature is ideal for professionals who often need to adjust tone or simplify text for reports, emails, or presentations. The AI integration ensures their work is efficient and polished.  

3. For Everyday Users:

The user-friendly design of these features ensures that even those unfamiliar with AI can easily harness its power to enhance their projects.  

The Road Ahead: AI and Legacy Tools

The integration of AI into Paint and Notepad marks a significant step in Microsoft’s journey to modernize legacy tools while retaining their accessibility. These updates show that traditional programs can evolve without losing their essence, making them relevant to new generations of users.  

Why This Matters:

By blending simplicity with innovation, Microsoft is addressing the needs of diverse user groups, from students and professionals to hobbyists. These updates also highlight how AI is becoming a core component of everyday tools, reshaping workflows across industries.  

Who Can Access These Features?

Microsoft has rolled out these updates to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels on Windows 11. While some features, like Generative Fill, are hardware-specific, others, such as Rewrite, are available to all Windows 11 users in select regions.  

As these features gain wider availability, they are expected to redefine how users interact with these decades-old applications.  

Conclusion

Microsoft’s decision to integrate AI into Paint and Notepad underscores the company’s vision of combining innovation with user-friendliness. By introducing features like Generative Fill, Generative Erase, and Rewrite, Microsoft has transformed these classic tools into powerful assets for creativity and productivity.  

Whether you’re an artist looking to enhance your designs, a writer refining your text, or an everyday user exploring AI’s potential, these updates cater to everyone. As AI continues to evolve, tools like Paint and Notepad are leading the charge, proving that even the simplest applications can achieve extraordinary results.  

These updates are more than features—they’re a glimpse into the future of accessible, AI-driven software.