Marcus Chen
Microsoft Paint, also known as MS Paint, is a simple graphics editor that has been included with all versions of Microsoft Windows since 1985. In 2017, Microsoft announced plans to move MS Paint to the Microsoft Store, citing the need for more frequent updates. After almost four years, in April 2021, Microsoft finally moved MS Paint to the Microsoft Store, making it a free standalone application. This move was met with mixed reactions, with some users expressing confusion about the need to shift basic apps to the Store. However, it allowed Microsoft to update Paint more regularly and provided users with the option to download and use the app if needed.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Date of announcement | July 2017 |
| Reason for the move | To update the app more frequently |
| Public reaction | Negative |
| Availability | Free to download |
| New features | Keyboard input support, AI art generator, background removal tool, etc. |
| New icon | Yes |
| New location | Moved from the Windows Accessories folder of the Start menu to its own section |
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What You'll Learn
MS Paint is now a free standalone application in the Microsoft Store
MS Paint is now available as a free standalone application in the Microsoft Store. In 2017, Microsoft initially planned to discontinue the graphics app after 32 years, marking it as "deprecated" in the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update. However, due to public demand, MS Paint has been preserved and moved to the Microsoft Store, where it can be downloaded for free. This move allows Microsoft to update Paint more frequently, and users can now choose whether to install Paint on their devices.
The decision to transition MS Paint to the Microsoft Store is part of a broader strategy to update and modernise the application. Microsoft had intended to replace MS Paint with Paint 3D, which was expected to offer enhanced functionality. However, Paint 3D failed to gain popularity, and many users continued to prefer the classic MS Paint. As a result, Microsoft shifted its focus to updating MS Paint, introducing new features such as keyboard input support and removing 3D tools.
MS Paint's move to the Microsoft Store is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures the longevity of the application, which has been a beloved fixture of Windows operating systems since 1985. By making it a standalone download, Microsoft can update Paint more regularly, enhancing its functionality and addressing any issues that may arise. Secondly, the move reflects Microsoft's commitment to user feedback and preferences. By listening to its customers, Microsoft retained MS Paint and made it more accessible, demonstrating a user-centric approach.
Additionally, the transition to the Microsoft Store provides users with greater flexibility and choice. Those who prefer the simplicity and familiarity of MS Paint can easily download it from the store, while those seeking more advanced features can explore alternative options. This change aligns with Microsoft's goal of providing a diverse range of creative tools to cater to different user needs and preferences.
While MS Paint's move to the Microsoft Store signals a shift in how the application is delivered, it does not diminish its importance or accessibility. MS Paint remains a widely-used and beloved graphics editor, known for its ease of use and simplicity. With its new home in the Microsoft Store, MS Paint is well-positioned to continue its legacy, offering users a straightforward and accessible platform for their creative endeavours.
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Paint 3D was initially supposed to replace MS Paint
In 2017, Microsoft announced its plans to move MS Paint to the Microsoft Store. The company also intended to replace the classic MS Paint with Paint 3D, which was introduced in the same year. Paint 3D was supposed to usher in a new era of 3D creativity, with features such as 3D brushes, shapes, effects, and a 3D library. However, Paint 3D failed to gain popularity among users and did not become the preferred replacement for MS Paint.
Paint 3D faced several challenges that contributed to its lack of success. Some users disliked the interface, finding it difficult to navigate and unsuitable for their needs, particularly those who wanted to create quick and simple 2D images rather than 3D assets. Microsoft's decision to update the original MS Paint instead of addressing these interface issues further hindered the adoption of Paint 3D.
Additionally, Paint 3D did not meet Microsoft's internal expectations. It saw fewer downloads and lower user satisfaction compared to MS Paint. The app also lacked certain features desired by users, and updates to enhance its functionality did not materialize. As a result, Microsoft decided to discontinue Paint 3D and focus on the classic MS Paint application.
In November 2024, Microsoft removed Paint 3D from the Microsoft Store and ceased providing updates for the app. Despite its initial promise as a replacement for MS Paint, Paint 3D ultimately could not replicate the enduring popularity of its predecessor. This decision by Microsoft underscores the company's responsiveness to user feedback and its commitment to providing applications that meet the needs and preferences of its diverse user base.
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MS Paint is still bundled with Windows 10 and Windows 11
In 2017, Microsoft announced that it would be moving MS Paint to the Microsoft Store, where it would be available as a free download. This move was intended to allow for more frequent updates to the application. However, despite this announcement, MS Paint is still bundled with Windows 10 and Windows 11.
The decision to move MS Paint to the Microsoft Store was met with some backlash from users, who had become accustomed to having the application readily available as part of the core Windows applications. In response to this feedback, Microsoft clarified that while MS Paint would no longer be included in the core bundle of Windows applications, it would still be accessible as a free download from the Microsoft Store.
MS Paint has been a staple of the Windows operating system since its inception in 1985. Its simplicity and ease of use have made it a popular choice for quick and easy image editing, despite not being the first choice for more advanced users. The program supports various image formats, including Windows bitmap (BMP), JPEG, GIF, PNG, and single-page TIFF, and offers both color and two-color black-and-white modes.
With the release of Windows 10 and Windows 11, Microsoft introduced an updated version of MS Paint. This new version includes a refreshed user interface, improved font picker, and support for dark mode. Additionally, the updated MS Paint features new tools such as stamp mode, trail mode, regular shapes, and moving pictures. However, some older features have been removed, and there have been reports of issues with manipulating smaller images in the newer versions.
While MS Paint has moved to the Microsoft Store and is available as a free download, it continues to be bundled with Windows 10 and Windows 11. This decision reflects Microsoft's response to user feedback and the enduring popularity of this long-standing graphics editor.
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MS Paint will be updated more frequently
Microsoft Paint, or MS Paint, has been a staple of Windows computers since 1985. In 2017, Microsoft announced plans to move MS Paint to the Microsoft Store, and after almost four years, the company finally moved the app. This move was intended to allow for more frequent updates to the application.
MS Paint's move to the Microsoft Store means that it will no longer be bundled with Windows 10. Instead, users will have to download it from the Microsoft Store. This change will enable Microsoft to update the app more regularly, as updates will no longer be tied to Windows 10 feature upgrades. In the past, updates to MS Paint have been infrequent, with new features and improvements only being added occasionally. By moving MS Paint to the Microsoft Store, Microsoft can now release updates more swiftly and efficiently, addressing bugs and introducing new features more rapidly.
The ability to update MS Paint more frequently is advantageous for both Microsoft and its users. For Microsoft, it means they can address issues and introduce improvements more swiftly, enhancing the user experience and maintaining the app's relevance. More frequent updates also demonstrate Microsoft's commitment to MS Paint, assuring users that the app will continue to be supported and improved. Additionally, with updates no longer tied to Windows 10 upgrades, Microsoft can push updates to all users simultaneously, ensuring that everyone has access to the latest version of the app.
For users, more frequent updates mean they can benefit from improvements, bug fixes, and new features sooner. This can enhance their overall experience with the app, making it more reliable and potentially introducing new functionalities that expand their creative possibilities. The timely updates also ensure that MS Paint remains compatible with evolving hardware and software environments, guaranteeing its longevity and continued usability.
While the move to the Microsoft Store enables more frequent updates, it's important to note that the pace of updates will also depend on Microsoft's development priorities and resources. However, with MS Paint now having its own section in the store, it seems likely that Microsoft intends to give the app more dedicated attention and support.
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MS Paint has a new icon
MS Paint has been a beloved graphics editor since its release in 1985. In 2017, Microsoft announced plans to move MS Paint to the Microsoft Store, and after almost four years, the transition has finally happened. With this migration, MS Paint has gained a new icon.
The new icon signifies a fresh start for the classic application, which has been a staple of Windows operating systems for decades. The move to the Microsoft Store allows MS Paint to be updated more regularly, ensuring that it remains accessible and functional for users. While the app is not yet available in the store, a placeholder has appeared, indicating its imminent arrival.
The decision to move MS Paint to the Microsoft Store was met with mixed reactions. Some users appreciated the ability to choose whether to include the app with Windows 10, while others lamented the potential loss of a familiar and beloved program. MS Paint has been a go-to for quick and easy image editing, despite not being the first choice for more advanced users.
The new icon is a visual representation of MS Paint's evolution. While the classic functionality and simplicity remain, the new icon reflects the app's updated home in the Microsoft Store. This change also aligns with Microsoft's efforts to update and improve MS Paint, ensuring its longevity and relevance in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
The updated MS Paint in the Microsoft Store includes new features such as a refreshed user interface, improved font picker, dark theme, and support for transparent PNG files. These additions enhance the user experience and bring MS Paint more in line with modern design and editing requirements. The new icon is a symbol of these improvements and adaptations to changing user needs and expectations.
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Frequently asked questions
Microsoft initially planned to replace MS Paint with Paint 3D, but due to Paint 3D's unpopularity, MS Paint will now be available as a free download in the Microsoft Store. Moving Paint to the Microsoft Store also allows it to be updated more frequently.
MS Paint was moved to the Microsoft Store in April 2021, with the release of Windows 10 Insider build 21354.
MS Paint has a new icon, and it has gained new features such as a refreshed user interface, improved font picker, and a dark theme. However, some older features have disappeared, and there are issues with manipulating smaller images in newer versions of Paint.
