What to know

  • Paint is getting a project file format (.paint) that saves layers and edits for future editing.
  • An opacity slider is being added for pencil/brush tools, allowing for translucent strokes.
  • These features are currently in testing in Windows Insider’s Dev and Canary channels.
  • Other apps like Snipping Tool and Notepad are also getting updates (quick markup, AI features).

Microsoft Paint is evolving with powerful new features that bring it closer to professional-grade software like Adobe Photoshop. A key upcoming addition is the introduction of Photoshop-like project files that save your work in an editable format (.paint), preserving layers and edits. This means images are no longer flattened upon saving, allowing users to seamlessly continue their creative process later.

Microsoft Paint's .paint project file

Via Windows

The core of the update is Paint’s new project file extension, .paint. Similar to Photoshop’s PSD files, these project files retain layers, transparency, and editing states within a single file. This will allow artists and casual creators to:

  • Save complex compositions without losing layer information.
  • Reopen and modify individual layers instead of a flat image.
  • Share editable Paint projects with others for collaborative editing.
  • Work on projects over multiple sessions without quitting early or exporting multiple file copies.

This feature moves Paint from a simple one-shot image editor to a more comprehensive tool that supports non-destructive editing workflows.

Microsoft Paint's Opacity Slider

Via Windows

Paint also adds an opacity slider for pencil and brush tools, a feature long expected by digital artists. This lets users adjust the transparency of their strokes, enabling:

  • Softer shading and blending effects.
  • More nuanced and natural brushwork.
  • Better control for creating highlights, shadows, and texture effects.

This opacity control works similarly to Photoshop and greatly expands Paint's capability for artistic work.

Other key upcoming changes include Snipping Tool getting a quick markup bar (pen, highlighter, eraser), with the ability to re-crop after capture, and Notepad getting AI-features like summarizing, rewriting, content generation (for Copilot+ PCs).

Availability & rollout

  • These features are in the Windows Insider Program, in both Dev and Canary channels.
  • The specific Paint version mentioned is v11.2508.361.0 or newer.
  • Stable release timing hasn’t been confirmed. Expect rollout after a few weeks of testing and polish.

How to get the updated MS Paint with Projects and Opacity Slider

  • Join Windows Insider’s Dev or Canary channel if keen to try early.
  • Update Paint to version ≥ 11.2508.361.0 to get the .paint/project file feature.
  • Try saving some sample projects using layers to understand limitations and behavior.
  • Keep backups, especially since early releases may be unstable or have compatibility issues.

This change marks a shift in how Microsoft positions Paint—not just a simple drawing tool, but something more capable and flexible. Over time, incremental upgrades like these can make Paint a real option for many users previously shying away from heavier editors.