Microsoft is breathing new life into Windows 11's classic applications with a suite of AI-powered enhancements that blend nostalgia with cutting-edge functionality. The tech giant's latest Insider builds reveal significant updates to Notepad, Paint, Snipping Tool, and other legacy programs, marking the most substantial modernization effort since Windows 95.

The AI-Powered Transformation of Classic Apps

Windows 11's 2024 update introduces machine learning capabilities across several staple applications. Notepad now features:

  • AI-assisted code completion for developers
  • Context-aware spell check with grammar suggestions
  • Document summarization for lengthy text files
  • Cloud sync integration with OneDrive

Paint's revolutionary updates include:

  • Background removal with object detection
  • AI-generated art from text prompts
  • Style transfer effects (oil painting, watercolor, etc.)
  • 3D model integration from Paint 3D

Fluent Design Meets Legacy Functionality

Microsoft has carefully balanced modernization with familiarity:

pie
    title Design Philosophy Balance
    "Fluent UI Elements" : 45
    "Classic Layouts" : 30
    "New AI Features" : 25

The Snipping Tool now offers:

  • Optical character recognition (OCR) for screenshots
  • Redaction suggestions for sensitive information
  • Automatic object labeling in captured images

Privacy and Performance Considerations

While these AI features run locally when possible, some require cloud processing:

Feature Local Processing Cloud Processing Data Collected
Paint AI Art ❌ ✅ Prompt history
Notepad Summarization ✅ Optional None
Snipping Tool OCR ❌ ✅ Image text

Microsoft assures users that all cloud-processed data is encrypted and not used for advertising purposes.

The Copilot Integration Strategy

These app updates work seamlessly with Windows Copilot:

  • Contextual help based on active application
  • Cross-app workflows (e.g., "Create a diagram from these notes")
  • Personalization learning from usage patterns

Early benchmarks show mixed performance impacts:

  • Notepad launches 15% slower with AI features enabled
  • Paint memory usage increases by ~300MB during AI operations
  • Snipping Tool processing adds 2-3 seconds to capture workflow

The Future of Legacy Windows Apps

Industry analysts suggest this represents Microsoft's "two-track" approach:

  1. Modernization of beloved classics
  2. Gradual replacement with AI-first alternatives

Key unanswered questions remain about:

  • Long-term support for non-AI versions
  • Enterprise control over feature enablement
  • Offline functionality requirements

These updates are currently rolling out to Windows Insiders, with general availability expected in the 24H2 update. Users can toggle individual AI features in Settings > Apps > Advanced App Settings.