Microsoft’s MS Paint is getting two Photoshop-like upgrades while remaining free to use.
Microsoft's MS Paint is getting two Photoshop-like upgrades while remaining free to use.
Microsoft Paint Gets an Upgrade: Transparency and Layers Added
In a delightful blast from the past, Microsoft Paint, everyone’s favorite image editor from the 1990s, is making a comeback with some exciting new features. As part of an update for Windows Insiders, Paint is set to receive support for two major upgrades: transparency and layers. While transparency and layering have long been staples in other photo editing software like Photoshop, it’s not often that we see these features in Paint.
Transparency, as the name suggests, allows users to open and edit PNGs with a clear background. Just like in other photo editors, transparent parts of an image are indicated by a checkerboard pattern. Instead of the erased parts appearing white, they will now be truly clear. This feature opens up new possibilities for creativity and visuals in Paint.
Layers, on the other hand, enable users to stack shapes, text, and other images on top of one another. This means that users can create more complex and intricate artwork than ever before. Combining transparency and layers allows for even greater flexibility, as erasing the top layer reveals the layer underneath. Paint is evolving into a more versatile and robust tool, especially when paired with the recently announced background removal feature that allows users to easily cut out subjects from images.
While these new features are currently only available to Windows Insiders, it’s typically just a matter of time before they become available to the general public. To try out these enhancements, simply click on “new layer” in the toolbar, and a panel will appear with options to hide, duplicate, merge, or remove layers. Although these functions are not groundbreaking in the realm of image editing, they represent a significant upgrade for an editor that has remained largely unchanged for nearly four decades.
It’s worth noting that these additions may not attract users away from more professional photo editors like Photoshop. However, they do provide a solid upgrade for individuals who require a lightweight and free program for simple image editing tasks. Paint remains a compelling option for those who prefer not to or cannot install additional software on their devices.
If Microsoft continues to add features to Paint in the future, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the editor gaining popularity. Its free availability makes it an appealing choice compared to paid alternatives, and with every enhancement, it becomes an increasingly viable option for a wider user base.
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