In 2017, Microsoft unveiled Paint 3D as part of a significant update aimed at creators within its Windows 10 ecosystem. This modern iteration of the beloved Microsoft Paint, which first made its debut in 1985, introduced a suite of innovative features that expanded the app’s capabilities beyond its original scope. With enhancements for both 2D and 3D image editing, Paint 3D built upon the foundational elements of MS Paint, incorporating essential support for layers within a refreshed user interface.
Evolution of a Classic
The legacy of the original Paint app is a testament to resilience; it has endured since the days of Windows 1.0, undergoing minor updates and feature additions over the years. However, the recent surge in generative AI technology has prompted a shift in Microsoft’s strategy. With the introduction of AI-driven image generation tools and convenient updates such as one-click background removal, the company appears to be reassessing the role of Paint 3D in its software lineup.
Effective November 4, 2024, Paint 3D will no longer be available for download from the Microsoft Store, nor will it receive further updates. Users who currently have the app installed on their Windows devices will still retain access for their image editing and creation needs. Among its more intriguing features was the ability to import and manipulate 3D shapes and objects, allowing users to experiment creatively, albeit some may have viewed this as a novelty.
At the time of Paint 3D’s launch, Microsoft was heavily invested in augmented reality technologies, such as HoloLens, positioning the app as a user-friendly tool for working with 3D imagery. Meanwhile, the classic MS Paint has maintained its straightforward interface, which has seen only minor modifications over the years, most notably the integration of Microsoft Copilot+ AI features.
Given the enduring popularity and simplicity of MS Paint, it seems likely that this classic application will continue to hold a place in the Windows operating system for the foreseeable future.
