Microsoft to Retire Paint 3D, Focus on Enhancing Classic Paint App

11 Aug 2024

In a surprising turn of events, Paint 3D, which was heralded as the contemporary successor to the beloved Microsoft Paint, is set to be retired just seven years after its debut. Users launching the app have encountered a notification beneath the toolbar, announcing that “Paint 3D won’t be available in the Microsoft Store or receive future updates starting on November 4, 2024.”

Transitioning Features

Initially designed with a focus on 3D modeling, Paint 3D introduced a variety of features such as layers, transparency effects, and background removal. However, the reception was mixed; many users expressed dissatisfaction when Microsoft attempted to phase out the classic Paint app in favor of this new 3D-centric version. This backlash prompted the tech giant to make both applications available on Windows 10 and 11, allowing users to enjoy the best of both worlds.

As a result, the classic Paint app received significant enhancements, incorporating features like layers and auto background removal—capabilities that were once exclusive to Paint 3D. Moreover, the classic app recently gained an AI-powered upgrade with the introduction of the Cocreator feature, available solely to Microsoft Copilot users. This shift in focus towards the classic Paint application has left Paint 3D feeling somewhat neglected by its developers.

Market Dynamics and User Preferences

The 3D functionalities of Paint 3D never quite captured the mainstream audience, leading many to speculate that Microsoft’s decision to merge the most sought-after features of Paint 3D into the classic Paint app was a logical step. After all, while Paint 3D made its entrance in 2017, Microsoft Paint has been a staple since its launch in 1985, nearly four decades ago. The original Paint was a licensed version of PC Paintbrush, created by ZSoft Corporation and bundled with Windows 1.0.

Given its long-standing history, simplicity, and user-friendly interface, Microsoft Paint continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many. The application has consistently received updates and new features, ensuring its relevance in a landscape dominated by more advanced software like GIMP and Adobe Photoshop. Despite lacking the extensive capabilities of these competitors, the fact that Microsoft Paint is free with Windows and meets the needs of the average user solidifies its status as an essential component of the Microsoft ecosystem. Indeed, one could argue that Windows wouldn’t be the same without Microsoft Paint.

How to make 3d oil painting?

Creating a 3D oil painting involves several steps. First, prepare your canvas and sketch your design. Use heavy body oil paints or mix your oils with a thickening medium to achieve higher textural depth. Apply the paints thickly with a palette knife to build up layers and create dimensionality. Incorporate techniques like impasto for more pronounced, textured effects. Allow each layer to dry before adding new ones. You can also add mixed media elements like plaster or fabric to enhance the 3D effect.

How to make 3d paint flowers?

To make 3D painted flowers, start with a canvas and sketch your flower design. Use modeling paste to create raised petals and textures. Apply the paste with a palette knife or a detailing brush for precision. Once the modeling paste dries, paint over it with acrylic or oil paints, using thicker paint for more depth. Consider layering different shades and adding highlights for a realistic 3D effect. Accentuate the 3D form by painting shadows and highlights carefully. Optionally, add real flower petals or other textured materials to enhance the effect.
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
36770 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