Microsoft just updated a 38-year-old software with AI, and the results are amazing

AI comes to Microsoft Paint: Microsoft is introducing AI tools to its iconic Paint application, marking a significant update to the software that has remained largely unchanged since 1985.

• The new AI features are part of a Windows 11 update, aligning with Microsoft’s broader strategy to incorporate AI across its consumer products.
• Paint’s simplicity makes it an ideal candidate for AI integration, as it can help users create impressive artwork without advanced artistic skills.

Key AI features in Paint:

• Generative fill allows users to add AI-generated graphics to their artwork by typing text descriptions of what they want to see.
• Users can create and edit AI images on top of their existing artwork, enhancing their creative possibilities.
• Image Creator, powered by OpenAI’s DALL-E, will be more widely available to European users.

Availability and requirements: The update will initially be accessible to Windows Insider program participants and requires Microsoft Copilot+ for full functionality.

• Microsoft has not provided an immediate response to requests for additional comment on the update.

AI integration in other Microsoft products: Paint is not the only Microsoft application receiving AI enhancements.

• Notepad, Microsoft’s writing platform, will incorporate AI features to help users rewrite or edit sentences, adjusting tone and length as needed.
• These updates are part of Microsoft’s efforts to maintain a competitive edge in the AI race.

Broader context of AI in tech: The integration of AI into Paint reflects a larger trend in the tech industry, where companies are rapidly incorporating AI into their products.

• Meta’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, has discussed plans to increase AI-generated content across Facebook, Instagram, and potentially Threads.
• Apple recently introduced its first set of AI features for the iPhone, including “Writing Tools,” an editing feature similar to Microsoft’s AI enhancements in Notepad.

Additional Paint features: Beyond generative fill, Microsoft is also introducing generative erase to Paint.

• This AI tool allows users to remove unwanted objects from images without distorting the background.
• Generative erase will be available to all Microsoft PCs running Windows 11.

Cultural significance of Paint: The longevity and enduring popularity of Paint underscore its importance in Microsoft’s product lineup.

• Paint has been a part of Microsoft’s Windows operating system since its launch in 1985.
• The application has become a cultural icon, representing the aesthetic of the early digital era and internet boom.

Looking ahead: AI’s impact on digital creativity: The integration of AI into Paint and other basic applications signals a shift in how we approach digital creativity and content creation.

• As AI tools become more accessible in everyday applications, they have the potential to democratize creative processes, allowing users with limited artistic skills to produce impressive visual content.
• However, this trend also raises questions about the future of human creativity and the potential for AI-generated content to flood digital platforms, as highlighted by Zuckerberg’s comments on increased AI content across Meta’s platforms.