Introduction

Microsoft has recently announced the integration of advanced AI features into its classic Windows applications, Notepad and Paint. These enhancements aim to modernize these longstanding tools by introducing functionalities such as AI-assisted text rewriting in Notepad and AI-driven image generation in Paint. However, access to these features requires a Microsoft 365 subscription, marking a significant shift in how Microsoft offers its software utilities.

Background

Notepad and Paint have been integral parts of the Windows operating system since its early versions. Notepad has served as a straightforward text editor, while Paint has provided basic image editing capabilities. Over the years, both applications have seen minimal updates, maintaining their simplicity and ease of use.

AI Enhancements

Notepad

The new AI-powered "Rewrite" feature in Notepad allows users to:

  • Rephrase sentences: Select text and receive alternative phrasings.
  • Adjust tone: Modify text to be more formal, casual, or creative.
  • Modify length: Shorten or expand text as needed.

To utilize this feature, users highlight the desired text, right-click, and select the "Rewrite" option. The AI then presents multiple alternative versions for selection.

Paint

Paint's AI enhancements include:

  • Image Creator: Generates images based on text prompts using OpenAI’s DALL-E model.
  • Generative Erase: Removes unwanted elements from images, with AI intelligently filling in the background.
  • Background Removal: Automatically detects and removes backgrounds, simplifying image editing.

These features transform Paint into a more powerful tool for both casual and semi-professional graphic design tasks.

Subscription Model

Access to these AI features is gated behind a Microsoft 365 subscription. The available plans include:

  • Microsoft 365 Personal: $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year.
  • Microsoft 365 Family: $12.99 per month or $129.99 per year.

Subscribers receive monthly AI credits, which can be used across various Microsoft applications, including Notepad, Paint, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, and Designer. Once a user exhausts their monthly AI credits, they must wait until the next month’s credits are issued or upgrade to a higher-tier plan.

Implications and Impact

This move signifies Microsoft's broader strategy to integrate AI across its product suite while transitioning towards a subscription-based model. For casual users, the core functionalities of Notepad and Paint remain free, ensuring continued access to basic features. However, users seeking advanced AI capabilities will need to consider the cost of a Microsoft 365 subscription.

The introduction of AI features in these applications enhances productivity and creativity, offering tools that were previously available only in more specialized software. This democratization of AI tools aligns with industry trends but also raises questions about accessibility and the future of free software utilities.

Technical Details

The AI features in Notepad and Paint leverage advanced machine learning models:

  • Notepad's Rewrite Feature: Utilizes natural language processing to understand context and generate alternative text versions.
  • Paint's Image Creator: Powered by OpenAI’s DALL-E model, capable of generating diverse and realistic images from text descriptions.

These integrations require an internet connection and a Microsoft account to function, as they rely on cloud-based services for AI processing.

Conclusion

Microsoft's integration of AI features into Notepad and Paint represents a significant evolution of these classic applications. While the core functionalities remain free, the advanced AI capabilities are accessible through a subscription model, reflecting a broader industry shift towards monetizing premium features. Users must weigh the benefits of these enhancements against the cost of subscription, considering their individual needs and usage patterns.

Note: This article is based on information available as of May 26, 2025. For the most current details, please refer to Microsoft's official communications.