Microsoft is in the process of testing new artificial intelligence (AI) features for its first-party applications on Windows 11. On Thursday, the Redmond-based technology company announced an update for Windows Insiders in both the Canary and Dev channels. This update is specifically intended for users with a Copilot+ PC and includes enhancements to applications such as MS Paint, the Snipping Tool, and Notepad.
Innovative AI Features Unveiled for Windows Apps
In a recent blog post, Microsoft shared details about a range of new AI capabilities currently being evaluated with Windows Insiders. Although there is no specific timeline for a wider release, historical patterns suggest a possible rollout later this year.
MS Paint will receive two distinct AI enhancements. The first is a Sticker Generator feature, which complements existing tools like Generative Fill and Cocreator. This new addition allows users to create custom stickers through text prompts. Users can access the Sticker Generator from the Copilot menu, where they can enter a description for their desired sticker.
Upon completion, Copilot will present four variations of the sticker, enabling users to choose one to add to their canvas. It also offers options for copying the sticker for use in other applications or saving it for future reference. A new Stickers option in the toolbar allows users to revisit their created stickers easily.
Paint’s Object Selection tool
Photo Credit: Microsoft
Additionally, Microsoft is introducing an Object Select tool that employs AI to intelligently identify and isolate individual elements within an image, allowing for separate editing. This tool can be accessed from the toolbar, enabling users to simply hover the cursor over an object to select it. A new dialogue box will also give users an overview of both new and existing features in Paint.
The Snipping Tool will gain two new functionalities. The first is called Perfect Screenshot, an AI-enhanced tool that aids users in accurately capturing screenshots without the need for subsequent resizing or cropping. To use it, users can open the Snipping Tool by pressing the Print Screen key and select the Perfect Screenshot option while in rectangle mode. As users define the region of interest, the tool utilizes AI to adjust the screenshot to include only the selected content, allowing users to make edits before finalizing the capture.
The second addition to the Snipping Tool is a Colour Picker feature that facilitates quick identification and extraction of color codes from any part of the screen. This tool can be selected from the toolbar, and users can configure the output to display color codes in HEX, RGB, or HSL formats. After setting it up, users simply hover over an area to view the corresponding color code, with additional zoom functionality available for inspecting smaller regions.
Moreover, Notepad is set to receive an AI-powered feature termed Write. This functionality enables users to generate text content within the app, either from a blank document or by expanding an existing draft. Users can initiate the feature by placing the cursor at their desired location and either right-clicking to select Write or choosing it from the Copilot menu.
AI Powered Write Feature in Notepad
Photo Credit: Microsoft
When users activate Write, a text field appears where they can type a prompt indicating what they want the AI to create. After clicking Send, Copilot generates the requested text on the canvas. Users can then integrate the generated text into their document, modify it with additional prompts, or discard it as they wish.
To utilize the Write function in Notepad, users must be logged into their Microsoft account. This feature utilizes credits, akin to other AI functionalities within Windows 11. Free-tier users receive 15 credits monthly, while Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscribers get 60 credits. Copilot Pro subscribers enjoy unlimited credits.
