Windows 11 begin rolling out to consumers almost five months ago and it is important to understand that the operating system is still under development. While there are ways to install Windows 11 today, the new operating system or most of the new apps are not available to everyone just yet.
So far, Microsoft has released the new Snipping Tool, Windows Media Player and even MS Paint for Windows 11. MS Paint, which has been a part of the OS for decades, was recently updated with a new design and header that supports Mica on Windows 11, similar to other native apps like Clock or Mail & Calendar.
There was a time when Microsoft wanted to discontinue the classic Paint app and replace it with Paint 3D, as part of its plan to build and visualize 3D content for desktop and as well as users of Windows Mixed Reality. Of course, Paint was never discontinued and it’s actually getting better in future updates.
As you’re probably aware, the Paint app now features a new Microsoft Word-like header or title bar that has buttons for basic functionalities, such as Undo and Redo.
You can customize the title bar and add more options. The header or new command bar also includes links to File, Home, and View options. If you click on the first option “File”, you will be able to create new pictures, modify the existing pictures or even print your work using connected printers.
Microsoft is now taking the modern Paint experience to the next level by integrating WinUI components with today’s update for Windows 11. This new update, which is now live in the Dev Channel, enables a new modern look for “Edit Color”, “Resize and Skew”, and other dialogs.
As you can see in the images above and below, Paint’s new look matches the modern experience of Windows 11.
It’s worth pointing out that Microsoft is using WinUI elements within the Paint app, which is based on the Win32 framework. Additionally, Microsoft has made other changes to the Paint app:
- Microsoft fixed an issue where text boxes would move unexpectedly when you’re writing on the images using IME>
- Microsoft fixed an issue where these modern dialogs were not respecting the regional language in countries like the Netherlands.
- Microsoft has enabled a new feature that lets you shift-click on a colour swatch to use that colour as your secondary colour.
- Microsoft has improved support for screen readers.
The new MS Paint will begin rolling out to all users outside the Windows Insider program in early 2022.
