Microsoft has embarked on an innovative journey, introducing AI-enhanced functionalities to two of its long-standing applications, Notepad and Paint, originally launched in the 1980s. This development marks a significant evolution for these classic tools, now being tested by Windows 11 Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels.
AI Innovations in Paint
The latest iteration of Paint, version 11.2410.28.0, welcomes exciting features such as generative fill and generative erase. These tools are designed to empower users to manipulate images effortlessly, allowing for the replacement of elements with AI-generated content. This functionality complements the previously unveiled Cocreator feature, which leverages OpenAI’s DALL-E text-to-image model.
Dave Grochocki, product manager for Windows Inbox Apps, elaborated on the capabilities of generative fill, stating, “With this feature, you can make edits and additions with just a few words while preserving the existing art style of your project.” Additionally, the generative erase tool facilitates the removal of unwanted objects from images, seamlessly filling in the void to maintain the integrity of the artwork.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance Paint with AI-driven features, including a new background remover tool that simplifies the process of isolating subjects from their backgrounds, further enriching the user experience.
Notepad’s AI-Powered Rewrite Feature
Meanwhile, Notepad, which has been a staple text editing application since its inception in 1983, is also undergoing a transformation with the introduction of the “Rewrite” feature, previously known as CoWriter. This AI-powered tool enables users to automatically rephrase content, adjust tone, and modify length according to their specific needs.
Grochocki noted, “You can refine your text by rephrasing sentences and adjusting the tone or format, making it easier to tailor your content for particular objectives.” Currently, the Rewrite feature is available in preview for users in select countries, including the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Canada, Italy, and Germany, requiring a Microsoft account for access.
After a period of stagnation, Microsoft has been revitalizing Notepad since 2018, integrating new features to enhance its functionality and competitiveness against popular alternatives like Notepad2 and Notepad++. Recent updates have introduced a built-in character counter, spell check, autocorrect features, and more, including wrap-around find and replace, improved compatibility with Unix and Mac systems, tabbed browsing, text zoom, UTF-8 support, autosaving, and line number displays.
