In October 2017, Microsoft unveiled the “Fall Creators Update” for Windows 10, a moment marked by the introduction of Paint 3D. This innovative application was designed to transcend the limitations of the classic MS Paint, offering users the ability to create and manipulate three-dimensional shapes alongside a suite of advanced editing tools.
Initially, Microsoft contemplated phasing out the traditional 2D Paint app in favor of Paint 3D, but a significant backlash from users prompted a change of heart. The classic app was not only spared but also revitalized, finding a new home in the Microsoft Store for easier updates. This revival brought a host of new features, including keyboard shortcuts, a redesigned user interface, layer support, PNG transparency, and even AI-driven image generation.
Transitioning Focus
However, the resurgence of the classic Paint app comes at a cost, as Microsoft has announced the formal deprecation of Paint 3D. Set to be removed from the Microsoft Store on November 4, users will receive notifications via banner messages to ensure they are aware of this change, especially if they do not frequently consult Microsoft’s documentation on deprecated features.
For those seeking alternatives, Microsoft now recommends utilizing the Paint and Photos apps for 2D image editing, while the 3D Viewer app will serve as the go-to for viewing three-dimensional models. The responsibility for creating and editing 3D images will shift to third-party software developers.
When Paint 3D was first launched, it was marketed as a tool for crafting and manipulating 3D objects that could be integrated into real-world environments through the Windows Mixed Reality platform. Interestingly, this coincides with the impending removal of Windows Mixed Reality in the upcoming Windows 11 24H2 release, aligning closely with the discontinuation of Paint 3D.
As Microsoft continues to streamline its offerings, many applications from the Windows 8 and 10 eras have either been eliminated or rebranded in the Windows 11 landscape. Notable changes include the replacement of the Mail and Calendar apps with a version of Outlook, the rebranding of Groove to “Windows Media Player,” and the consolidation of Snip & Sketch back into the Snipping Tool. This strategic refocus underscores Microsoft’s commitment to enhancing its suite of built-in applications with a legacy that spans decades.
