Microsoft introduces AI enhancements for Paint and Notepad for Windows Insiders

In a significant update for Windows Insiders, Microsoft has begun rolling out innovative new features for the Paint and Notepad applications in the Canary and Dev Channels of Windows 11. This introduction of AI-powered enhancements aims to enrich the user experience, although it may not be immediately accessible to all users in these channels. Microsoft plans to extend availability based on user feedback during this initial rollout phase.

Enhancements to Paint (Version 11.2410.28.0)

The updated Paint app now features a game-changing Generative Fill capability, allowing users to edit their images by adding new elements that blend seamlessly with the existing art style. Utilizing the Selection tool, users can create a rectangular or free-form selection, after which a contextual menu appears. Here, they can select the Generative Fill option, input a text description of the desired addition, and hit ‘Create’ to see the AI at work.

If the initial output isn’t satisfactory, users can simply click the Try Again button to regenerate alternatives, or scroll through options using arrow buttons and apply the one they prefer by clicking Keep. Initially, this feature will be exclusive to Jetson-powered Copilot+ PCs.

Another noteworthy capability is the Generative Erase, which enables users to eliminate unwanted objects from their canvas while intelligently filling in the void with surrounding imagery. By selecting this option on the left where the eraser tool resides, users can brush over areas they wish to discard. They also have the flexibility to adjust their selections with “Add area to erase” or “Reduce area to erase.” Upon finalizing the selection, a click on Apply executes the erasure. Unlike Generative Fill, this tool will be available on all Windows 11 devices, providing maximal accessibility.

To boost performance, the latest Paint update deploys an enhanced diffusion model for Cocreator, facilitating faster results on supported devices—specifically, Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs. Following the debut of the Image Creator preview in Paint last year, the feature has now expanded to several additional regions, including the United States, France, the UK, Canada, Italy, and Germany.

Notepad’s AI-Powered Rewrite Feature

The latest Notepad update introduces an AI-driven Rewrite feature that significantly enhances text manipulation capabilities. Users can now effortlessly rephrase sentences, adjust their tone, and modify content length to achieve their desired output.

To utilize this feature, users can select the text they wish to rewrite, then right-click to choose the Rewrite option, navigate through the menu bar, or simply press Ctrl + I on their keyboard. Notepad will generate three distinct variations of the selected text, allowing users the option to pick their preferred version or retry for more suggestions.

This Notepad Rewrite feature is currently available in preview mode across select regions, including the United States, France, the UK, Canada, Italy, and Germany. Microsoft has also made efficiency improvements to the Notepad launch process, enhancing its startup speed by up to 55%.

By integrating these advanced AI features into both Paint and Notepad, Microsoft seeks to streamline creative workflows and improve user productivity, making these essential tools more powerful than ever.

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