Paint: Windows drawing program changes image styles

Microsoft is releasing new preview versions of the Paint drawing program in the Windows Insider channels. Developers have added an AI feature that allows interested users to adjust the style of an image.

Microsoft explains in the release announcement that the new Paint versions include the AI-powered feature called "Restyle," "which allows you to change the art style of images on the canvas." It is part of the Copilot menu and allows the selection of different art styles. A sample image from Microsoft shows, for example, the possibility of converting images into the "Pop Art" style.

For Copilot+ PCs

After selecting the style, users must click the "Generate" button. The results created can be copied, saved, or applied to the canvas. Restyle is initially expected to be available on Copilot+ computers powered by Snapdragon processors. In addition, a Microsoft account login is required. Microsoft currently says nothing about plans for support for other CPU architectures or even support without a local AI coprocessor.

Paint version 11.2509.441.0 or newer includes the Restyle function. Microsoft is distributing it first in the Windows Insider channels: Windows Insiders from the Canary, Developer, and Beta channels will receive the updated software. Distribution began on Thursday night. Microsoft typically starts with a small group and gradually expands the recipient circle, so not all Insiders will get the new feature immediately.

Microsoft is constantly developing its built-in Windows tools and equipping them with new AI features, among other things. In August, for example, the Snipping Tool received a video recording mode for selected windows a video recording mode for selected windows was added. However, it currently remains fixed on the initially selected screen area of the window – if you move it, there is no tracking with the recording area.

(dmk)