Explore Paint’s latest feature in Windows 11 and why users are divided. Discover the changes, benefits, and why some might not like it.
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You Might Not Like Paint’s Latest Feature in Windows 11
Microsoft is bringing another dose of AI to Windows 11 this time, right inside Paint.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the growing number of AI tools popping up across Windows, brace yourself: Microsoft Paint’s latest update introduces a new generative AI option that reimagines your artwork in different styles.
A New “Restyle” Feature for Paint
The feature, called Restyle, is part of the Paint app’s Copilot integration and is currently rolling out with version 11.2509.441.0 to Windows Insiders in the Canary, Dev, and Beta Channels.
Restyle lets users take any image they’ve opened in Paint and instantly transform it into a new design based on AI-generated styles. You can choose a preset like a “Pop Art” theme and hit Generate to see a completely restyled image. The result can then be added directly to your canvas or saved separately for later use.
According to Microsoft’s announcement:
“In this update we are introducing Restyle, an AI-powered feature that lets you transform the art style of images on the canvas. To get started, open Paint and select the Restyle option from the Copilot menu. Choose from a preset list of styles and select the Generate button.”
Another AI Tool in Windows
Microsoft isn’t the first to experiment with style-transfer AI tools. ChatGPT Plus, for instance, popularized stylized image generation earlier this year, while Apple’s Image Playground offers similar capabilities through Apple Intelligence.
However, the difference is that Paint now puts this technology directly on the desktop no need for extra apps or browser tools. That’s convenient for users who want to experiment quickly, but for others, it might feel like one AI feature too many.
After all, Paint has already seen major upgrades in Windows 11, such as new brushes, support for layers, and dark mode. The addition of AI image generation could seem like unnecessary clutter especially if it brings more pop-ups or prompts encouraging people to try it.
Limited Availability (for Now)
For now, the Restyle feature appears to be limited to Copilot+ PCs powered by Snapdragon chips, and you’ll need to sign in with a Microsoft account to access it. Like other AI tools from Microsoft’s Image Creator suite, Restyle runs in the cloud and may consume AI credits tied to your account.
The company hasn’t said exactly when the feature will reach all users, but if past updates are any guide, it’s likely to expand beyond the Insider Channels soon.
Bottom Line
Paint has evolved dramatically from its humble beginnings, becoming a surprisingly capable creative tool in Windows 11. But as Microsoft continues to weave AI deeper into every corner of the OS, not everyone will welcome the change. For some, Restyle is an exciting step forward; for others, it’s just one more reminder that the simple Paint app they grew up with is long gone.
Source: Windows Blog
