Microsoft Paint, a digital drawing and sketching tool that has been a part of Windows since 1985, has often been overlooked as a serious image editing software. Nonetheless, its simplicity and longstanding presence have made it a familiar feature for many Windows users. In the past, its basic functionalities have been the subject of jest, but recent developments hint at a game-changing future for this classic tool.
Revolutionary Update: Background Removal Tool
In a bold move, Microsoft has unveiled a new tool for Paint: an automatic Background Removal feature. This impressive addition allows users to effortlessly remove the background of any image in just one click, resulting in a neat cutout of the main subject.
Key features of the update include:
- An efficient one-click background removal process.
- Compatibility with full canvas or selective area via the selection tool.
- Simplified user experience; simply paste or import the content onto the canvas and click the “remove background” button.
- Ability to use the rectangle select function to focus on specific areas.
How to Use the New Feature
To make the most of Paint’s updated capabilities, follow these steps:
- Download the latest version of MS Paint from the Microsoft Store or access it from trusted hosted cloud storage.
- Launch Paint on your device.
- Paste or import your desired image onto the app’s canvas.
- Select the “remove background” option in the toolbar.
- If needed, use the rectangle select function to hone in on a specific area.
A Brief History of MS Paint’s Journey
Microsoft Paint, colloquially known as MS Paint, has weathered various phases in its lifespan. A few years ago, its future seemed uncertain as Microsoft shifted its focus to Paint 3D, a modern alternative to the traditional application. In fact, Microsoft had previously marked Paint as ‘deprecated’ post the Windows 10 Creators Update. There were even talks of completely removing Paint and promoting newer solutions like Paint 3D or WordPad.
However, the advent of Windows 11 saw a change in this trajectory. With limited uptake of Paint 3D, Microsoft realigned its emphasis back to the iconic Paint app. Previous updates introduced features like dark mode and enhanced zoom controls. Now, with the addition of the ‘background removal tool’, Microsoft Paint is once again in the limelight.
Availability of the Updated Paint
Currently, this rejuvenated version of Paint, complete with the background removal tool, is exclusively accessible to Windows 11 users enrolled in the Canary or Dev channels of the Windows Insider Program. Nonetheless, it’s anticipated that it will soon be available to a broader audience, reinforcing Microsoft Paint’s reputation not just as an iconic but also as a continually evolving tool.
Looking Towards the Future of Microsoft Paint
The recent enhancements to Microsoft Paint underscore a broader trend in the tech industry: reviving and refining classic tools to meet contemporary needs. While new applications and software are continuously developed, there is undeniable value in nurturing tools that have been foundational for decades.
Microsoft Paint’s transformation indicates that even the most straightforward tools can adapt and thrive in today’s sophisticated digital landscape. By listening to user feedback and staying attuned to industry trends, Microsoft is ensuring that Paint remains not only relevant but also a preferred choice for many.
The Broader Implications for the Design Community
For designers, both amateur and professional, the reinvention of Microsoft Paint is a testament to the power of adaptability. Tools that were once perceived as rudimentary can now rival more advanced software, offering functionalities that were previously the domain of specialized and often costly programs.
With tools like the background removal feature, Paint is now poised to be an essential asset for tasks like:
- Quick image editing for presentations.
- Design mockups for initial brainstorming sessions.
- Basic graphic design tasks without the need for extensive software training.
Moreover, the affordability and accessibility of Paint mean that budding designers or those with budget constraints have an avenue to explore and express their creativity without barriers.
Conclusion
While Microsoft Paint might have been undervalued in the past, it’s clear that Microsoft is committed to enhancing its capabilities and ensuring its relevance in the ever-evolving world of digital design. With such promising updates, Paint seems poised to regain its place in the hearts and toolkits of designers and casual users alike, cementing its legacy in the digital design realm.
Read more about the Windows Insider program and its offerings here.
