Microsoft Paint Transformed: New AI Features Enhance Creativity in Windows 11

Microsoft is enhancing the Paint application in Windows 11 by introducing innovative artificial intelligence capabilities aimed at enhancing user creativity. The recent announcements from the company highlight a significant update designed for Windows Insiders, where new features are tested before they are made available to the broader audience. Among these upgrades is the Generative Fill functionality, which utilizes AI to create objects based on user-defined text prompts. Alongside this addition, users can also expect a Generative Erase tool and improvements to existing features like Cocreator and Image Creator. However, these features remain exclusive to Windows Insiders for the time being.

Microsoft has elaborated on the new AI enhancements in a blog update. The most noteworthy feature is the Generative Fill, which bears resemblance to offerings available in other graphic design tools. With this tool, users can enrich their images by integrating AI-generated elements, whether the images are created within the app or uploaded from external sources.

To employ the Generative Fill, users must first utilize the Selection tool found in the toolbar to highlight the specific area where they wish to introduce an object. Once the selection is made, a small menu will display at the bottom of the chosen section. By clicking on Generative Fill, a text field will appear, enabling users to enter a description of the desired object. After composing their prompt, they click on Create to produce the AI-generated element.

If the result falls short of their anticipated standards, users can select the Try Again option, allowing them to regenerate or refine their prompt for an improved result. Once satisfied with the creation, pressing the Keep button will seamlessly integrate the object into the existing image.

This feature is currently accessible exclusively to users on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, and a Microsoft account login is necessary. At present, the Generative Fill option is only available to Windows Insiders in select locations.

In addition to Generative Fill, Microsoft is releasing the Generative Erase tool. This new utility can be activated while using the eraser and facilitates the removal of specific objects within an image. It also incorporates enhancements to ensure the erased area blends naturally with the surrounding background. This feature is compatible with all Windows 11 devices.

Moreover, Microsoft is refining the diffusion-based model utilized in Cocreator, which was launched earlier this year. Cocreator is designed to interpret user sketches and produce matching images characterized by a higher degree of artistic expression and variety in style. Furthermore, the Image Creator feature in Paint is being rolled out to additional regions.