Microsoft will officially retire its Paint 3D app later this year, marking the end of a bold, though ultimately underwhelming, attempt to modernize its classic Paint application. A banner has appeared within the app, notifying users that Paint 3D will be removed from the Microsoft Store and cease receiving updates starting on November 4, 2024.
Original Vision for Paint 3D
Paint 3D was introduced in 2017 as part of the Windows 10 Creators Update, designed to replace the original Paint with features like 3D modeling, layers, transparency effects, background removal, and PNG support. Microsoft aimed to bring the classic Paint into the modern era, allowing users to create and manipulate 3D objects.
However, despite its innovative features, Paint 3D never managed to gain the widespread adoption Microsoft had hoped for. Many users found the app’s new tools and 3D focus overly complex and less appealing compared to the simplicity and ease of use of the original Paint.
The new app’s launch was met with significant resistance, particularly when Microsoft attempted to replace the classic Paint app entirely with Paint 3D. The public backlash was strong enough that Microsoft decided to make both versions available on Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Classic Paint Revived with New Features
Over time, the classic Paint app continued to enjoy strong user support, leading Microsoft to reinvest in its development.
In 2023, the company released significant updates to the original Paint, introducing features such as layers, transparency, and auto background removal—capabilities that were previously exclusive to Paint 3D. Additionally, the classic Paint app received a major upgrade with the introduction of the Cocreator feature, an AI-powered tool available to Microsoft Copilot users.
Users Prefer Simplicity
As the original Paint app received these enhancements, Paint 3D’s advanced capabilities did not see the same level of adoption. The app’s 3D modeling tools were seen as unnecessary by many users, who preferred the straightforward nature of the original Paint for basic tasks like image editing and drawing.
Microsoft’s decision to retire Paint 3D while continuing to support and develop the classic Paint app highlights the company’s response to user preferences. Paint 3D, introduced in 2017, did not achieve the same level of user engagement as Microsoft Paint, which first launched in 1985 as a licensed version of ZSoft Corporation’s PC Paintbrush.
As Microsoft continues to streamline its app offerings, Paint 3D will be removed, joining other Windows 10-era applications like Cortana, Mail & Calendar, and the Tips app.
Users who have Paint 3D installed may continue to use it after November 4, but without future updates, they might consider transitioning to the enhanced classic Paint or other alternatives.
Featured Image courtesy of smail Kaplan/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images
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