Microsoft Paint experiences a revival with advanced AI features

Microsoft Paint, a cherished digital art software, is currently experiencing a significant revival thanks to the introduction of advanced AI features. Originally launched in 1985, MS Paint has a storied history of being the go-to application for budding artists and casual users alike. It provided an intuitive and straightforward platform, especially during the nascent stages of digital art, and remains a nostalgic staple for many.

In 2017, MS Paint was officially declared obsolete, leaving many users disappointed. However, this beloved programme has received a new lease of life with a series of innovative updates aimed at enhancing its functionality and relevance in today’s digital age. The new features, designed to enrich the user experience, are part of Microsoft’s broader plan to integrate advanced AI functionalities into its software suite.

These enhancements will primarily benefit users with Copilot Plus PCs, offering Generative Fill and Generative Erase tools. These tools are akin to features found in more sophisticated software like Adobe Photoshop. The Generative Erase tool allows for the removal of unwanted elements from images by using a brush that can be adjusted in size. This is reminiscent of Photoshop’s Spot Healing Brush Tool, which is popular for its ability to seamlessly erase objects from photos.

Generative Fill, on the other hand, leverages text prompts to add AI-generated content to images. This function allows users to insert new, automatically generated elements into their projects, thereby expanding the creative possibilities within the familiar MS Paint environment. This development is underpinned by Microsoft’s Cocreator tool, employing a diffusion-based model equipped with C2PA Content Credentials to ensure built-in moderation of content.

Microsoft Paint’s transformation with these AI-driven features is aimed at retaining its accessibility for beginners while enabling more intricate project customisation. The software’s simplicity, coupled with these advanced capabilities, might make it appealing not only to novices but also to seasoned artists seeking a different workflow experience.

Beyond MS Paint, the digital art landscape is continuously evolving, with other programmes like CorelDRAW receiving updates that maintain their competitive edge. As users explore various digital art tools, MS Paint’s updates might position it as a viable alternative or complementary tool to its more advanced counterparts. This renaissance of MS Paint offers a nostalgic yet modernised version of the classic software, potentially strengthening its foothold among a new generation of digital artists.

Source: Noah Wire Services