Exciting New Features Added to Snipping Tool, Notepad, and Paint

Microsoft Enhances Windows 11 Apps with Latest Updates

In a recent update for Windows Insiders in the Release Preview Channel, Microsoft has not only unveiled two new preview builds of Windows 11 but has also introduced significant enhancements to three core applications: Paint, Snipping Tool, and Notepad. These updates are designed to improve user experience and functionality across the platform.

Revolutionary Features in Paint

The Paint application has been upgraded to version 11.2508.361.0, delivering two pivotal enhancements. Firstly, users can now retain their artistic creations as projects, which means all layers of their artwork can be saved for future edits or usage on different devices. This feature comes with the new .paint file extension, allowing easy management in File Explorer.

Secondly, a new opacity slider has been added. This tool enables users to adjust the transparency of their brushes and pencils, offering greater realism in their strokes and blends, thereby enhancing the artistic process.

Snipping Tool’s Quick Markup Feature

The Snipping Tool has also received an update, now at version 11.2508.24.0, introducing a feature dubbed Quick Markup. Microsoft describes this function as “a faster way to annotate your screenshots and streamline your workflow.”Users can easily annotate their screens pre-capture; by pressing Win + Shift + S to open the Snipping Tool, they can access Quick Markup either by clicking a button or using Ctrl + E.

After initiating the annotation process, users have the ability to select the desired capture area and utilize various tools including pens, highlighters, erasers, shapes, and even emojis. Moreover, they can resize their selection, share captures directly, perform visual searches using Bing, or interact with Copilot for additional support.

Quick Markup in Snipping Tool on Windows 11

Notepad’s AI-Powered Capabilities

Notepad has entered the AI arena with version 11.2508.28.0, allowing users access to advanced features without needing a premium subscription. Those utilizing a Copilot+ PC can leverage the device’s Neural Processing Unit to perform tasks such as drafting, rewriting, and summarizing text. Notably, these AI features are available without requiring a Microsoft Account, broadening accessibility.

For current premium subscribers, the opportunity exists to shift to cloud-based AI models, though it should be noted that local processing capabilities within Notepad are currently limited to English.

These updates underline Microsoft’s commitment to enhancing the Windows 11 ecosystem, offering users innovative tools and features that enrich productivity and creativity.

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