Microsoft is making strides in enhancing user experience with the introduction of a new Copilot button in the Paint app, a feature that is now accessible to all users. This update comes with the recent release of Windows 11 Build 26120.3073 (KB5050090) to the Developer Channel of the Insider Program, and it is also available as an optional update for Windows Insiders on the Beta Channel. Insiders on the Canary and Dev Channels will receive this update for Paint (version 11.2412.271.0 and higher).
In recent years, Microsoft has been weaving artificial intelligence into the fabric of its native applications within Windows 11. The trend of branding AI features under the Copilot umbrella has led to the incorporation of this new icon in the Paint app, which consolidates various existing AI functionalities. Windows Latest has had the opportunity to explore this build.
Upon clicking the Copilot icon, users will find a drop-down menu that showcases familiar AI features such as Cocreator, Image Creator, Generative Erase, and Remove Background. Each tool in this menu is accompanied by a brief description, guiding users in selecting the most appropriate option for their needs.
Cocreator:
Cocreator stands out as an image generation feature that operates locally, exclusive to Copilot+ PCs. Launched last year alongside Copilot+, Cocreator distinguishes itself from other online image generation models by utilizing the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) to create images based on user prompts. To begin, users simply describe their desired drawing in the Cocreator image description space, adjust the creativity level and style, and Cocreator will generate real-time images based on the input provided on the Paint canvas.
Image Creator:
With the surge of AI models capable of generating images from user prompts, Microsoft has also entered this innovative space through the Image Creator feature in Paint. Users can create images on an existing canvas by selecting Image Creator, which opens a text box on the right pane for entering prompts and adjusting creativity levels. Users have the flexibility to modify their prompts until they achieve the desired outcome. Copilot+ PCs enjoy a distinct advantage, as they can generate images directly on the device thanks to the advanced capabilities of the latest Snapdragon processor.
Generative Erase:
The Generative Erase feature allows users to eliminate unwanted portions of an image effortlessly. By selecting the area to be removed, users can see the selected part vanish, while a generative fill seamlessly blends the remaining elements. This feature enhances the usability of Paint, requiring no artistic skills—just a simple selection of the area to be erased.
Remove Background:
Another useful tool within the Paint app is the “Remove Background” feature, which automatically processes the image to eliminate the background in just a few seconds. The effectiveness of this tool largely depends on the contrast between the background and the subject, with higher-resolution images yielding better results. While these features were previously available in Microsoft Paint and the Photos app, their integration into a single Copilot button significantly improves accessibility.
It is important to note that using the Image Creator requires AI credits, which are included with a Microsoft 365 subscription, with one credit spent for each set of generated images. This latest build also brings numerous minor improvements and fixes, including an enhanced Windows Search functionality, allowing users to search for files saved in OneDrive by describing them naturally in the search bar, eliminating the need to recall exact filenames.
As users explore the new Copilot button in the Paint app, feedback on its functionality and usability is encouraged in the comments section below.
Hands on: Microsoft is giving classic Windows 11 Paint app a big Copilot AI upgrade
Microsoft is making strides in enhancing user experience with the introduction of a new Copilot button in the Paint app, a feature that is now accessible to all users. This update comes with the recent release of Windows 11 Build 26120.3073 (KB5050090) to the Developer Channel of the Insider Program, and it is also available as an optional update for Windows Insiders on the Beta Channel. Insiders on the Canary and Dev Channels will receive this update for Paint (version 11.2412.271.0 and higher).
In recent years, Microsoft has been weaving artificial intelligence into the fabric of its native applications within Windows 11. The trend of branding AI features under the Copilot umbrella has led to the incorporation of this new icon in the Paint app, which consolidates various existing AI functionalities. Windows Latest has had the opportunity to explore this build.
Upon clicking the Copilot icon, users will find a drop-down menu that showcases familiar AI features such as Cocreator, Image Creator, Generative Erase, and Remove Background. Each tool in this menu is accompanied by a brief description, guiding users in selecting the most appropriate option for their needs.
Cocreator:
Cocreator stands out as an image generation feature that operates locally, exclusive to Copilot+ PCs. Launched last year alongside Copilot+, Cocreator distinguishes itself from other online image generation models by utilizing the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) to create images based on user prompts. To begin, users simply describe their desired drawing in the Cocreator image description space, adjust the creativity level and style, and Cocreator will generate real-time images based on the input provided on the Paint canvas.
Image Creator:
With the surge of AI models capable of generating images from user prompts, Microsoft has also entered this innovative space through the Image Creator feature in Paint. Users can create images on an existing canvas by selecting Image Creator, which opens a text box on the right pane for entering prompts and adjusting creativity levels. Users have the flexibility to modify their prompts until they achieve the desired outcome. Copilot+ PCs enjoy a distinct advantage, as they can generate images directly on the device thanks to the advanced capabilities of the latest Snapdragon processor.
Generative Erase:
The Generative Erase feature allows users to eliminate unwanted portions of an image effortlessly. By selecting the area to be removed, users can see the selected part vanish, while a generative fill seamlessly blends the remaining elements. This feature enhances the usability of Paint, requiring no artistic skills—just a simple selection of the area to be erased.
Remove Background:
Another useful tool within the Paint app is the “Remove Background” feature, which automatically processes the image to eliminate the background in just a few seconds. The effectiveness of this tool largely depends on the contrast between the background and the subject, with higher-resolution images yielding better results. While these features were previously available in Microsoft Paint and the Photos app, their integration into a single Copilot button significantly improves accessibility.
It is important to note that using the Image Creator requires AI credits, which are included with a Microsoft 365 subscription, with one credit spent for each set of generated images. This latest build also brings numerous minor improvements and fixes, including an enhanced Windows Search functionality, allowing users to search for files saved in OneDrive by describing them naturally in the search bar, eliminating the need to recall exact filenames.
As users explore the new Copilot button in the Paint app, feedback on its functionality and usability is encouraged in the comments section below.