Exciting Updates for CoPilot+ PC Owners
CoPilot+ PC owners are set to enjoy a new feature that enhances their experience without the burden of additional costs. Soon, users will be able to access Notepad’s AI writing capabilities directly on their devices, eliminating the need for a subscription. This development follows the introduction of the app’s summarize, write, and rewrite functionalities earlier this year.
Previously, utilizing Notepad’s AI writing tools required either a CoPilot Pro or a Microsoft 365 subscription. For those who have invested in an AI PC, this update presents a significant opportunity to save on monthly expenses. Moreover, if you hold both a subscription and a CoPilot+ PC, you will have the flexibility to choose between local and cloud-based generation options.
Microsoft is currently rolling out this local AI feature to Windows Insider beta testers, with availability limited to the English language for the time being.
In addition to the Notepad enhancements, Paint is receiving notable upgrades in the latest Insider builds. Users can now save their projects in a manner reminiscent of Adobe’s offerings. By selecting File > Save as project, users can choose a location for their .paint files, allowing them to seamlessly continue their work at a later time.
Furthermore, Paint is introducing an opacity slider for its pencil and brush tools, marking a step towards greater functionality. While MS Paint may not be positioned as a direct competitor to Photoshop, its gradual evolution is evident, especially following the addition of AI image generation features last year.
Lastly, the Snipping Tool is also receiving an update, with a new quick markup option being introduced for beta testers. After capturing a screenshot, users will find this feature available in the capture toolbar, enabling them to annotate their images before saving.
All these updates are currently accessible through the Canary and Dev Insider channels, and anyone with a Microsoft account can sign up for free. While Microsoft occasionally retracts beta features before they become widely available, such instances are rare, making these enhancements a promising addition to the Windows ecosystem.
