In a notable shift within its software offerings, Microsoft appears to be winding down its Paint 3D application, a tool that aimed to blend traditional 2D editing with modern 3D modeling capabilities. According to information shared by leaker phantonofearth, users have begun to see a banner within the app indicating that Paint 3D will cease to receive updates and will be removed from the Microsoft Store on November 4. This announcement directs users to a Microsoft webpage detailing deprecated features, although Paint 3D is not currently listed among them.
The initial discovery was made by XDA Developers, who noted the absence of the banner in their own version of Paint 3D, as well as in a recent download by PCMag. This inconsistency raises questions about the rollout of Microsoft’s plans, as the company has yet to issue any formal communication regarding the future of the app.
From Launch to Legacy
Launched in 2017 alongside the Windows 10 Creators Update, Paint 3D was envisioned as a modern evolution of the classic Paint application, merging it with the 3D Builder to create a versatile editing platform. While the app was praised for its innovative approach, early reviews highlighted its shortcomings in essential photo-editing functionalities, such as brightness and color adjustments. Critics suggested that despite these limitations, Paint 3D had the potential to revitalize the long-standing Paint brand.
However, the initial excitement surrounding Paint 3D was soon tempered. By mid-2017, Microsoft announced plans to phase out the original Paint, sparking considerable backlash from its dedicated user base. In response, the company clarified that while MS Paint would no longer be a standard feature in Windows 10, it would still be available for download from the Microsoft Store. At that time, Microsoft positioned Paint 3D as the “new app for creativity,” signaling a shift in its focus.
The Decline of Paint 3D
Fast forward to 2021, and the trajectory of Paint 3D took another turn as both 3D Viewer and Paint 3D were removed from the default app installation list on Windows 10. This change meant that users would need to actively seek out the app in the store, further diminishing its presence in the Microsoft ecosystem.
As we approach November 4, the date set for its removal from the Microsoft Store, it remains uncertain how many users will be affected by this change. The lack of formal communication from Microsoft adds an element of ambiguity to the situation. What is clear, however, is that Paint 3D's journey from a promising new tool to a deprecated feature highlights the challenges tech companies face in balancing innovation with user expectations.
