This week, Microsoft quietly unveiled more details about the requirements for its highly anticipated AI-powered Cocreator in Paint through a new support document. The tech giant has specified that users will need a Microsoft Account (MSA) and a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) to leverage this innovative feature. Additionally, the Cocreator requires a Copilot+ PC, which means the NPUs must deliver 40 TOPS or higher performance.
Sign-in Requirement
The AI-powered Cocreator in Paint utilizes the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) to generate images locally on your computer. There are no restrictions on the number of images you can create. However, users must sign in with their Microsoft account and be connected to the internet to access cloud services that ensure the safe use of AI.
Using Cocreator
To get started with Cocreator, you need a Copilot+ PC, which was announced by Microsoft this spring. Additionally, you must update the Microsoft Paint app to the latest version available in the Microsoft Store. Follow these steps to use Cocreator:
- Open Microsoft Paint and select the Cocreator icon on the toolbar to see the side pane.
- Enter a text prompt in the box. For example, you can type "a cat in a garden" or "a spaceship in the sky." Be as descriptive as possible about the elements in your drawing.
- Start drawing on the canvas with your mouse or stylus. You can use any tools or colors you want. For best results, use the colors you desire in the output, broader brush strokes, and fill up the canvas as much as you can.
- As you draw, you will see AI generating artwork in the side pane based on your text and sketch.
- Adjust the Creativity level by moving the slider. Lower creativity means less AI input and the output will be closer to your sketch. Higher creativity means more AI input and the output will be more imaginative and diverse.
- Select a Style option from the drop-down menu. You can choose art styles like watercolor and oil painting to customize the artwork you create.
- When you are satisfied with your artwork, simply click the generated image in the side pane to apply it to the Paint canvas. You can keep editing it or save it.
You can find the official support document on Microsoft's website for more detailed information.