Microsoft has announced the rollout of new AI-powered features in Paint and Notepad for Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels on Windows 11.
These updates introduce enhanced tools aimed at boosting creativity and productivity, with a particular focus on generative AI capabilities.
Paint (version 11.2410.28.0)
Generative Fill
Paint now features a generative fill tool that allows users to add or modify content in images using simple text prompts. This AI tool helps maintain the original art style while providing intuitive, easy-to-use editing options.
Users can describe what they want to add, and the tool generates images that match the selected area. If the result isn’t satisfactory, users can modify the text prompt or regenerate the image until they are happy with the outcome.
Generative Erase
The new generative erase tool removes unwanted objects from images and fills in the space left behind. Users can select an area using the eraser tool to remove content, and the AI will intelligently fill the gap, making it appear as though the object was never there.
Cocreator Update
Microsoft has enhanced the Cocreator tool, improving its speed and reliability. It now includes built-in moderation for a safer creative experience. Cocreator is available on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs.
Image Creator Update
Following its preview launch last year, Microsoft is expanding Image Creator to more regions. This feature allows users to create AI-generated images in Paint, further expanding creative possibilities.
Notepad (version 11.2410.15.0)
Notepad now includes a generative AI-powered rewrite tool to help users rephrase, shorten, lengthen, or adjust the tone of text. By selecting text and choosing the “Rewrite” option, users can generate multiple variations of their content.
The tool also offers the ability to adjust tone, length, and format. Previous versions of the text are preserved, so users can revert to earlier drafts if necessary.
Additionally, Notepad’s startup performance has been improved, with app launch times improving by up to 55% for some users.
Availability
These updates are being rolled out gradually to Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels.
- Generative Fill: Available on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, requiring a Microsoft account. Initially, it is available to Windows Insiders in supported markets, with regional availability varying.
- Generative Erase: Available to all Windows 11 users.
- Image Creator: In preview for all Windows 11 users in the United States, France, UK, Canada, Italy, and Germany. Microsoft 365 and Copilot Pro subscribers in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand can also use Image Creator with AI credits.
- Rewrite in Notepad: Available in preview for users in the United States, France, UK, Canada, Italy, and Germany, with additional support for Microsoft 365 Personal, Family, and Copilot Pro users in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand.
Microsoft plans to monitor feedback before making these features widely available.