Microsoft rolls out AI updates for classic Windows apps to Insiders

[harlan4096]

Microsoft has released a new build to the Windows 11 Insider channels Dev and Canary. These introduce new AI capabilities in the classic Windows apps Paint and Notepad.

The details:

• Notepad is getting a text rewrite option.
  
• Paint is getting generative fill and erase.
  
• Paint is also getting updates to Cocreator and Image Creator.
  

Notepad: new AI-powered Rewrite feature

Notepad, the classic text editor of Windows, is getting rewriting capabilities that are powered by artificial intelligence. We reviewed these back in January 2024 when news about the feature broke.

These appear to be similar to the Copilot rewriting options that Microsoft is offering elsewhere. When you highlight text in Notepad, you get the option to have it changed by AI.

Options include changing the size of the text, e.g., making it longer, adjusting the tone, or the format.
 

Notepad's new AI-powered Rewrite options. Source: MicrosoftMicrosoft notes that you may use the feature either by selecting Rewrite from the context menu or with the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + I.

The AI generates three versions of the text based on your selection. These can be modified by making changes to the available text options.

Note that you cannot give text instructions; all you can do is make modifications to size, tone and format to get different rewrites. Microsoft is also applying content filtering "to ensure that the generated text is free from harmful, offensive, or inappropriate material".

Microsoft notes that the feature is in preview at the moment. It is only available for users who are signed in with a Microsoft account and reside n the following regions: United States, France, UK, Canada, Italy, and Germany. Users from these regions get 50 credits for rewrites.

Users from Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand who have a Microsoft 365 Personal and Family account or a Copilot Pro subscription, may use the feature by spending AI credits directly.

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