Microsoft adds AI features to Paint, Snipping Tool and Notepad: Here's what’s new

Microsoft

Microsoft is giving three of its classic Windows apps, Paint, Snipping Tool, and Notepad, a smart upgrade. The company has started rolling out new AI-powered features for users in the Canary and Dev Channels of Windows 11 Insider Preview, and there’s plenty to explore.

Paint gets AI stickers and smart tools

The Paint app is getting a host of AI features. First up is the Sticker Generator, a fun new tool that lets you create custom stickers just by typing a prompt. Want a cat wearing sunglasses? Type it in, and Paint will create it for you using AI. These stickers can be added to your canvas, copied to other apps, or saved for later.

There’s also a new Object Select tool that helps you pick and edit specific parts of an image. It uses AI to identify and isolate elements on the canvas, making editing quicker and smarter.

Plus, a new Welcome Experience in Paint will guide users through the latest features, a handy intro for both new and seasoned users.

These Paint updates are available only on Copilot+ PCs, and you’ll need to sign in with a Microsoft account to use the sticker generator.

Snipping Tool gets sharper

Snipping Tool is also stepping up its game. The highlight is Perfect Screenshot, an AI tool that automatically adjusts your selection area so you get the ideal screenshot without needing to crop it later. Just press Print Screen or open Snipping Tool, choose the feature, and let AI do the rest.

Another new feature is the Color Picker, which lets you grab color codes (HEX, RGB, or HSL) from anywhere on your screen. It’s especially useful for designers and developers who need to match colors precisely.

Again, these features are limited to Copilot+ PCs for now.

Notepad learns to write

Lastly, Notepad is getting an AI boost with a Write feature. It helps you draft text from a simple prompt—great for starting ideas or building on existing notes. Just right-click or press Ctrl + Q to get started. You can refine or discard the generated text as needed.

To use Write, you’ll need a Microsoft account and an active Microsoft 365 subscription with Copilot Pro for AI credits.