Microsoft to Retire Paint 3D, Focus Shifts Back to Original Paint

10 Aug 2024

Microsoft Discontinues Paint 3D: A Focus Shift in Creative Tools

Microsoft has made the decision to officially retire its Paint 3D application, a tool that was introduced in 2016 as an innovative extension of the beloved classic Paint program. Designed to empower users to create and edit 3D models within the Windows 10 environment, Paint 3D unfortunately did not achieve the level of popularity that Microsoft had envisioned.

The move to discontinue Paint 3D follows a noticeable decline in user engagement over the years. In 2021, Microsoft began this transition by removing Paint 3D from the list of startup applications in Windows 10. Although the app remained available for download through the Microsoft Store on both Windows 10 and Windows 11, it struggled to attract a significant user base, particularly when juxtaposed with the enduringly popular 2D Paint application, which continues to serve millions of users worldwide.

Effective November 4th, Paint 3D will no longer be available for download, nor will it receive any further updates. Microsoft has also confirmed that all support for the app will cease on this date. While this announcement may come as a disappointment to some, it aligns with the company’s broader strategy of refocusing its efforts on enhancing the original Paint application. Recent updates have introduced new features such as artificial intelligence enhancements, resizable drawing tools, and improved pen and eraser functionalities.

The discontinuation of Paint 3D signifies the conclusion of Microsoft’s endeavor to transition traditional 2D artwork into a 3D format through this particular application. Instead, the tech giant appears to be prioritizing the evolution of its classic Paint software, which continues to adapt to the changing needs of modern users.

As Paint 3D takes its place in the annals of software history, users are invited to reflect on its journey. While the concept of a 3D painting tool was indeed forward-thinking, it ultimately failed to resonate with a wider audience. With Paint 3D now retired, Microsoft’s attention will likely remain on refining and expanding the capabilities of its core Paint application.

What are your thoughts on the discontinuation of Paint 3D? Did the app meet your creative needs, or did it fall short of expectations? We welcome you to share your insights in the comments section.

Disclaimer: We may be compensated by some of the companies whose products we talk about, but our articles and reviews are always our honest opinions. For more details, you can check out our editorial guidelines and learn about how we use affiliate links.

Can you do layers in Paint 3D?

Paint 3D does not support layers in the traditional sense as seen in software like Photoshop. Instead, Paint 3D allows you to work with multiple objects, which can be manipulated independently. You can place these objects on top of each other, effectively creating a layered effect. However, once these objects are merged, they cannot be separated, unlike layers in more advanced graphic design software.

How to add layers in Paint 3D?

While Paint 3D does not feature traditional layer functionality, you can create a layered effect using 3D objects. First, create or import your first object. Then, add new objects which you can place above or below the original object. Use the 'Move to front' or 'Move to back' options to arrange these objects. This method simulates layering but with limited flexibility compared to true layer-based editing in advanced software.
Paint.NET

Paint.NET download for free to PC or mobile

Latest update Paint.NET download for free for Windows PC or Android mobile

3
1093 reviews
36862 downloads

News and reviews about Paint.NET

22 May 2025

Windows Introduces New Features for Paint, Snipping Tool

Windows updates offer enhanced tools for Paint, Snipping Tool, and Notepad to Windows Insiders. This includes a sticker generator, precision screenshot tool, and AI text assistance.

Read more

06 May 2025

Windows 11 Transformation: New Start Menu and AI Features

Windows 11 introduces a revamped Start menu and new AI features. Microsoft enhances user experience with a phone companion panel, and updates to the Paint app and Snipping Tool, integrating an AI agent into settings.

Read more

09 Apr 2025

Windows 11 Update Enhances Paint with AI Cocreator

Windows 11's Paint update introduces an enhanced Cocreator panel, improving user experience with AI-enabled artwork creation. New features include a Try again button for regenerating images and an Apply button for easy content integration.

Read more

03 Mar 2025

Microsoft Elevates Paint on Windows 11 with AI Innovation

Microsoft upgrades Paint on Windows 11, adding AI-driven Image Creator and Generative Erase, enhancing the creative experience for users.

Read more

17 Sep 2024

Microsoft to Discontinue Legacy DRM Services and Retire Paint 3D in November

Microsoft will discontinue Legacy DRM services for Windows Media Player and Silverlight on Windows 7 and 8, affecting DRM-protected content playback. Personal CD rips and streaming to Xbox 360 will be impacted. Microsoft also plans to retire Paint 3D in November.

Read more

13 Aug 2024

Microsoft to End Paint 3D Support, Focus Shifts to Classic Paint

Microsoft will discontinue Paint 3D after November 4, 2024, ending downloads and updates. Introduced in 2017 with Windows 10 Creators Update, Paint 3D struggled to gain traction. Microsoft will focus on updating the traditional Paint application instead.

Read more

13 Aug 2024

Microsoft to Remove Paint 3D from Store, Ending Updates in November 2024

Microsoft will remove Paint 3D from the Microsoft Store on November 4, 2024. The app will no longer receive updates, and Windows 11 users are being directed to a webpage for more details. Despite a high rating, Paint 3D struggled with user retention and received negative feedback.

Read more

12 Aug 2024

Microsoft to Discontinue Paint 3D Downloads and Updates from November 2024

Microsoft announced that Paint 3D, introduced in 2017 with Windows 10, will be discontinued on November 4, 2024. The app, known for its 2D and 3D editing capabilities, will no longer be available for download or updates. Existing users can continue to access it.

Read more

12 Aug 2024

Microsoft to Discontinue Paint 3D, Removal Set for November 2024

Microsoft will discontinue Paint 3D, ceasing updates and removing it from the Microsoft Store on November 4, 2024. Existing users can still use the app, but new downloads and future updates will be unavailable.

Read more

11 Aug 2024

Microsoft to Discontinue Paint 3D, Removal from Store Set for November 4

Redmond has announced the discontinuation of Paint 3D, effective November 4. Launched in 2017 with Windows 10 Creators Update, the app struggled to gain traction. Users can still use it post-November, but updates will cease. This move aligns with Microsoft's transition to Windows 11.

Read more