Microsoft has further enhanced the Snipping Tool in Windows 11 with significant new features aimed at boosting productivity and usability. The latest update, version 11.2504.38.0, introduces a built-in AI-powered text extractor (Optical Character Recognition, OCR) and a color picker tool, rounding out the utility’s capabilities for users ranging from students to professionals in graphic design, web development, and digital workflows.

One of the standout additions is the integrated OCR feature, enabling users to extract text directly from screenshots or images without needing any third-party software. This capability is powered by AI and deep learning models, capable of recognizing text—including structured data like tables and sensitive information that can be redacted quickly. The tool provides several text action options within the toolbar:

  • Copy All Text: Extracts all recognized text as plain text.
  • Copy as Table: Formats recognized table data for easy pasting into applications like Excel.
  • Quick Redact: Allows users to black out sensitive information from screenshots before sharing.

The extracted text is automatically saved to the clipboard for quick pasting into various applications such as Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or email clients, enabling seamless digital workflows. This integration removes the need for complex OCR steps or external apps, making OCR accessible even to casual users who need basic text extraction functionalities. The tool supports numerous languages and can handle different fonts and handwriting with reasonable accuracy, although clearer, less stylized images yield the best results.

Another practical addition is the built-in color picker within the Snipping Tool. This leverages on-screen color sampling at the pixel level, allowing users—particularly those involved in design and web development—to easily identify and retrieve precise color codes from any part of their screen. This complements the Snipping Tool’s screenshot capabilities by integrating core design functionality directly into the app, eliminating the need for separate color picker utilities or PowerToys modules.

The update also features improvements that support system-wide clipboard access for the extracted text, making it usable across Windows applications instantly. The interface enhancements ensure both newcomers and power users can adopt the new features effortlessly. The Snipping Tool continues to align with Microsoft’s broader Windows 11 AI-enhanced ecosystem, including Copilot and other productivity-focused AI utilities such as PowerToys Text Extractor and the updated Photos app OCR (through which images in the gallery can also yield extractable text). Together, these tools integrate AI seamlessly into routine tasks, reducing friction and boosting overall efficiency.

To take advantage of the latest Snipping Tool features, users must ensure their Windows 11 installation is updated and the Snipping Tool version is at least 11.2504.38.0. After launching the Snipping Tool (search via Windows Key + S), users can:

  1. Capture or open an image: Start a new snip or load an existing image.
  2. Activate OCR: Click the 'Text Actions' button in the toolbar to trigger text recognition and highlight extracted text.
  3. Copy or redact text: Choose from the Text Actions options to copy text or redact sensitive portions.
  4. Use the color picker: Sample colors anywhere on the screen for design or referencing purposes.

This update reflects Microsoft’s commitment to transforming Windows 11 into a smarter, more AI-integrated platform. By bringing advanced OCR and color picking directly into native tools, Microsoft is democratizing access to technologies that previously required specialized software. While the Snipping Tool’s OCR may not match high-end solutions used in professional-grade content creation, it is more than sufficient for everyday professional and personal use, making text extraction and design reference easier than ever.

The ongoing evolution is part of a broader push, with features like Copilot AI assistant and PowerToys utilities enhancing Windows 11’s core capabilities in an integrated, user-friendly manner. This empowers users to handle a wide range of digital tasks efficiently without relying excessively on third-party apps, driving productivity across diverse workflows.

For more detailed user discussions and guides on the Snipping Tool’s OCR and new features, the Windows Insider community forums offer a rich trove of firsthand experiences and tips.