Microsoft Adds AI to Notepad and Paint: Here’s What’s New and How to Use

Notepad and Paint, two of Microsoft’s iconic programs are getting exciting improvements with new AI capabilities. Microsoft has begun to roll out updates to Paint and Notepad to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels on Windows 11. These improvements make these tools more potent and intuitive while also aiming to boost creativity and user experience. 

What’s New:

Notepad is getting Rewrite which is an AI function. Users can rewrite sentences, change the tone of their writing, and change the length of their writing with this tool. Users can highlight the text they want to edit and then right-click and select Rewrite, or they can use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+I. After that, the AI will provide users a choice between three possible revised versions.

Paint, on the other hand, is receiving two new AI tools: Generative Fill and Generative Erase. Users can add elements to photos by simply typing their desired text in a text box using the Generative Fill tool. By filling in the background as if the object had never been there, users can effortlessly eliminate undesired portions of an image using the Generative Erase tool.

Key Insight:

These updates reflect Microsoft’s commitment to integrating AI into everyday applications. Notepad’s Rewrite feature is particularly notable as it enhances a simple text editor with advanced capabilities that were previously unavailable. Similarly, Paint’s new tools bring a modern twist to digital art, allowing for more creativity and flexibility in image editing.

Microsoft is launching this feature in preview on Windows 11 in the US, France, UK, Canada, Italy, and Germany. 

How This Works:

To use the Rewrite feature in Notepad:

1. Highlight the text you want to change.
2. Right-click and select Rewrite, or press Ctrl+I.
3. A dialog box will appear with three rewritten options.
4. Users can further customize their choice by adjusting settings for tone and length.

For Paint:

• To use Generative Fill, select an area of your image and type a description of what you want to add.
• For Generative Erase, select the area you wish to remove using the eraser tool, and the AI will fill in the space automatically.

Result:

The introduction of these features significantly enhances both applications. Notepad now offers a way to refine writing quickly and easily, while Paint allows artists to expand their creative possibilities without needing extensive editing skills. The updates are currently available for Windows Insiders in specific regions, with plans for broader availability following user feedback.

Why This Matters?

These updates are important as they show how traditional software can evolve with technology. By incorporating AI, Microsoft is not only improving functionality but also making these applications more relevant in today’s digital landscape. Users can expect a smoother experience whether they are writing documents or creating art.

We’re Thinking-

Microsoft’s ongoing use of AI tools in its apps raises questions regarding the direction of software development. Will there be comparable improvements made to more conventional tools? What effects will these modifications have on the way we communicate and create? Other software makers may be compelled to improve their products if AI is incorporated into commonplace programs like Notepad and Paint. All things considered, these upgrades are a big step towards ensuring that technology is more useful and accessible to every individual.