In October, Microsoft unveiled a roadmap for next-generation AI features in Windows 11, and now, two of these groundbreaking updates are beginning to roll out to testers. Specifically, AI-powered tools are arriving in Paint and Notepad, with more features expected to follow later.
Among the most exciting additions are Generative Erase and Generative Fill, both of which bring AI-powered enhancements to Paint. Generative Erase allows you to highlight a section of an image and let the AI intelligently remove it, filling in the background as if it was never there. This feature was previously available in the Photos app, but its integration into Paint makes it more accessible. While it’s ideal for minor touch-ups, I personally prefer to keep images as authentic as possible.
Generative Fill, on the other hand, is even more impressive. Building on the previously added Creator feature in Paint, Generative Fill allows you to outline an area in your image and then fill it with AI-generated content that seamlessly blends into the surrounding scene. This functionality takes the image-editing experience to new heights, helping users create more polished and integrated designs. While Generative Fill will initially be available only on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, Generative Erase will be accessible to all PCs running the Windows Insider code.
Additionally, Notepad is receiving an AI-driven rewrite feature. This tool doesn’t generate content but can help modify the tone and length of a highlighted section. It’s a useful tool for quickly adjusting your notes, but it won’t replace your creativity. These AI features are part of Windows Insider builds for Paint (version 11.2410.28.0) and Notepad (version 11.2410.15.0), with more tools coming soon. Microsoft’s Recall feature, which was originally expected to roll out alongside these updates, has been delayed until December as Microsoft focuses on privacy and security.
