Microsoft's latest updates to Windows 11 signify a transformative shift in the functionality of its classic built-in applications: Paint, Snipping Tool, and Notepad. By integrating advanced artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, these tools are evolving to meet the demands of modern users, enhancing creativity, productivity, and user experience. **Paint: From Basic Drawing to AI-Powered Creativity** Historically, Microsoft Paint has been a straightforward application for basic image editing and drawing. The introduction of AI-driven features marks a significant evolution: - **Generative Fill**: This feature allows users to add elements to their artwork by simply describing them. By selecting an area and inputting a description, Paint generates options that seamlessly integrate with the existing image. Initially available on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, this tool democratizes digital art creation, making it accessible to users regardless of their artistic skills. ([blogs.windows.com](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/11/06/new-ai-experiences-for-paint-and-notepad-begin-rolling-out-to-windows-insiders/?utm_source=openai)) - **Generative Erase**: Users can now remove unwanted objects from images effortlessly. The AI analyzes the surrounding area and fills in the space, making it appear as if the object was never there. This feature is available across all Windows 11 PCs, enhancing the utility of Paint for quick image corrections. ([blogs.windows.com](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/11/06/new-ai-experiences-for-paint-and-notepad-begin-rolling-out-to-windows-insiders/?utm_source=openai)) - **Cocreator and Image Creator**: These tools leverage AI to generate images from text prompts, allowing users to create unique visuals without manual drawing. The improved diffusion-based model ensures faster and more accurate results, with built-in moderation to maintain content appropriateness. The preview of Image Creator is expanding to additional markets, broadening its accessibility. ([blogs.windows.com](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/11/06/new-ai-experiences-for-paint-and-notepad-begin-rolling-out-to-windows-insiders/?utm_source=openai)) **Notepad: Beyond Text Editing** Notepad, traditionally a simple text editor, is embracing AI to enhance writing and comprehension: - **Rewrite Feature**: Users can select text and choose the 'Rewrite' option to receive three AI-generated variations, allowing for adjustments in tone, length, or style. This feature is particularly beneficial for refining drafts or tailoring content for different audiences. It's currently available in preview in select regions, with plans for broader rollout. ([blogs.windows.com](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/11/06/new-ai-experiences-for-paint-and-notepad-begin-rolling-out-to-windows-insiders/?utm_source=openai)) - **Summarize Function**: This tool condenses selected text into concise summaries, aiding in quick comprehension of lengthy documents. Users can adjust the summary length to suit their needs, streamlining information processing. ([blogs.windows.com](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2025/03/13/snipping-tool-and-notepad-app-updates-begin-rolling-out-to-windows-insiders/?utm_source=openai)) - **Explain with Copilot**: Integrated with Windows Copilot, this feature helps users understand complex text, such as code segments or log files, by providing detailed explanations directly within Notepad. This integration enhances Notepad's utility for developers and technical users. ([blogs.windows.com](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/02/08/snipping-tool-and-notepad-updates-begin-rolling-out-to-windows-insiders/?utm_source=openai)) **Snipping Tool: Enhanced Screen Capture Capabilities** The Snipping Tool has evolved from a basic screenshot utility to a more versatile application: - **Draw & Hold**: This feature allows users to draw shapes like rectangles, ovals, lines, and arrows over screenshots. By holding the cursor or pen still after drawing, the tool converts the stroke into a well-formed shape, facilitating precise annotations. ([blogs.windows.com](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2025/03/13/snipping-tool-and-notepad-app-updates-begin-rolling-out-to-windows-insiders/?utm_source=openai)) - **Perfect Screenshot**: An AI-driven feature that automatically adjusts the capture area to tightly frame on-screen content, reducing the need for post-capture cropping. This ensures cleaner and more efficient captures. ([blogs.windows.com](https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2025/05/06/introducing-a-new-generation-of-windows-experiences/?utm_source=openai)) **Implications and Impact** The integration of AI into these legacy applications reflects Microsoft's commitment to enhancing user experience by leveraging cutting-edge technology. For users, these updates mean more intuitive and powerful tools that can adapt to various tasks, from creative projects to technical documentation. For professionals, the AI enhancements in Notepad and Snipping Tool can streamline workflows, reducing the time spent on repetitive tasks. The broader availability of these features, especially with the expansion of Image Creator to more regions, indicates Microsoft's intent to make AI tools accessible to a global audience. **Technical Details** - **Availability**: The AI features in Paint and Notepad are rolling out to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels, with plans for broader distribution. Some features, like Generative Fill in Paint, are initially exclusive to Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs. ([blogs.windows.com](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/11/06/new-ai-experiences-for-paint-and-notepad-begin-rolling-out-to-windows-insiders/?utm_source=openai)) - **Requirements**: To utilize these AI features, users need to sign in with their Microsoft account. Certain functionalities may require a Microsoft 365 subscription or Copilot Pro subscription, with AI credits applicable for features like Image Creator and Rewrite in Notepad. ([blogs.windows.com](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/11/06/new-ai-experiences-for-paint-and-notepad-begin-rolling-out-to-windows-insiders/?utm_source=openai)) - **Performance Enhancements**: Notepad's launch performance has been improved, with most users experiencing over a 35% reduction in launch time, enhancing overall efficiency. ([blogs.windows.com](https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/11/06/new-ai-experiences-for-paint-and-notepad-begin-rolling-out-to-windows-insiders/?utm_source=openai)) **Conclusion** Microsoft's infusion of AI into Paint, Snipping Tool, and Notepad signifies a strategic move to modernize its suite of built-in applications. By enhancing these tools with intelligent features, Microsoft not only preserves their relevance but also empowers users with capabilities that align with contemporary digital demands. As these updates continue to roll out, users can anticipate a more seamless and enriched experience within the Windows 11 ecosystem.