Microsoft’s ongoing integration of AI into Windows continues to transform its core inbox apps from basic utilities into intelligent, user-centric tools. This week, Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels are receiving updates to Paint, Snipping Tool, and Notepad, each packed with features that reflect the company’s evolving vision for creativity, productivity, and contextual assistance.
Paint (version 11.2508.361.0) is stepping into the modern creative era with support for project files. Users can now save their work as editable .paint files, allowing for non-destructive editing and seamless continuation of projects. This marks a major shift from Paint’s legacy as a one-and-done canvas.
Also new is an opacity slider for the Pencil and Brush tools, giving users more control over transparency and layering. As Microsoft’s Dave Grochocki notes, this update “brings more flexibility to your creative workflow,” making Paint more viable for casual design and illustration.
Snipping Tool Introduces Quick Markup and Copilot Integration
Snipping Tool (version 11.2508.24.0) now includes Quick Markup, a streamlined way to annotate screenshots immediately after capture. Users can activate it via a new toolbar button or the shortcut Ctrl + E, then jump into editing with pens, highlighters, shapes, and even emojis.
The integration of Copilot and Visual Search with Bing adds a layer of intelligence, allowing users to extract insights or share annotated captures directly from the app. This positions Snipping Tool as more than just a screenshot utility; it’s becoming a lightweight visual communication platform.
Notepad (version 11.2508.28.0) continues its evolution into an AI-powered writing assistant. On Copilot+ PCs, users now have access to Summarize, Write, and Rewrite features without requiring a subscription. Those with subscriptions can toggle between local and cloud models, offering flexibility based on privacy or performance needs.
Currently available in English, these tools make premium AI “more accessible and flexible for everyone,” according to Grochocki. For writers, coders, and note-takers, this update significantly expands Notepad’s utility.
Since Microsoft began weaving its AI platform into inbox apps, Paint, Snipping Tool, and Notepad have seen a renaissance of features that prioritize speed, creativity, and contextual intelligence. These apps are no longer static; they’re becoming dynamic platforms for productivity.
But it’s time for Microsoft to turn its attention to its media apps. Photos and Videos remain underpowered compared to their AI-enhanced counterparts. Expanded file and codec support, in-app previews, and deeper integration with File Explorer could unlock new workflows for both creators and everyday users.
Imagine native previews for .MKV, .RAW, or .FLAC files, or AI-assisted tagging and sorting within the Photos app. These enhancements would not only streamline media management but also align with Microsoft’s broader push toward a smarter, more seamless Windows ecosystem.
For full details, check out the Windows Insider Blog.
