For many years, users have enjoyed the full functionality of Windows applications like Notepad and Paint without any cost. However, a recent shift indicates that the landscape is changing. While the fundamental features remain free, the introduction of advanced AI capabilities comes with a price tag.
A recent post on a Windows forum highlighted the new AI enhancements incorporated into Notepad and Paint within Windows 11. Users of Notepad can now request text rewrites, specifying preferences for length, tone, and style—be it more formal, casual, or even humorous. Meanwhile, Paint users can generate images using the AI-powered Image Creator and modify backgrounds with ease.
There’s a price to AI, both for Microsoft and its users
As outlined in the forum discussion, Microsoft is investing significantly in AI research and development. To support this ongoing work, the company is encouraging users to subscribe to Microsoft 365 and other applications by integrating AI features into its offerings. This freemium model, which has gained traction in mobile applications, is now making its way into desktop software.
For Microsoft, the logical approach to offset these costs is to pass them on to consumers. Consequently, the AI functionalities that were once freely accessible in Windows applications are now secured behind a subscription paywall. Users can still access all non-AI features of Notepad and Paint at no charge, but attempting to utilize the AI capabilities will prompt a message indicating the need for a Microsoft 365 subscription.
How much it costs to use Copilot AI with Notepad or Paint
The introduction of Copilot AI has brought about new pricing structures. Users can opt for a Microsoft 365 Personal plan at per month or 0 annually, or a Family plan priced at per month or 0 per year. Notably, the only feature available without a subscription is the background removal tool in Paint. Even with a subscription, there are restrictions to consider. For instance, under the Family plan, only the account owner can access Copilot, leaving other family members without AI capabilities.
Moreover, there are limits on AI usage. Each Microsoft 365 plan provides up to 60 AI credits per month, with each AI-related task consuming one credit. Once the credits are exhausted, users must wait until the following month to regain access. Microsoft also promotes an upgrade to the Copilot Pro plan, which offers unlimited AI usage for a month. As the company continues to weave AI into its core products, customers are faced with a crucial decision: to embrace these new offerings or seek out alternative solutions that may deliver similar functionality at a lower cost.
