Microsoft has updated the Paint app with two interesting new features. The latest update (version 11.2308.18.0 or higher) for Paint app brings support for transparency and layers.
The new update for Paint allows to add, remove, and manage layers on the canvas to create richer and more complex digital art. Using layers one can stack shapes, text, and other image elements on top of each other. Microsoft has also added support for transparency as well, including the ability to open and save transparent PNGs. Read the full details of the Paint app update provided by Microsoft below.
Today we are beginning to roll out an update for the Paint app to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels (version 11.2308.18.0 or higher). With this update, we are introducing support for layers and transparency!
You can now add, remove, and manage layers on the canvas to create richer and more complex digital art. With layers, you can stack shapes, text, and other image elements on top of each other. To get started, click on the new Layers button in the toolbar, which will open a panel on the side of the canvas. This is where you can add new layers to the canvas. Try changing the order of layers in this panel to see how the order of stacked image elements on the canvas changes. You can also show or hide and duplicate individual layers or merge layers together.
Paint composition of a cat utilizing multiple layers.
We are adding support for transparency as well, including the ability to open and save transparent PNGs! When working with a single layer, you will notice a checkerboard pattern on the canvas indicating the portions of the image that are transparent. Erasing any content from the canvas now truly erases the content instead of painting the area white. When working with multiple layers, if you erase content on one layer, you will reveal the content in layers underneath.
Short animation showing the background getting removed in Paint.
When you combine layers, transparency, and other tools in Paint, you can create exciting new images and artwork! For example, when combined with the new background removal feature, you can quickly create interesting layered compositions.
