Microsoft Says Goodbye to Paint 3D

Paint 3D was launched as an ambitious upgrade to the classic Microsoft Paint, a program beloved by many for its simplicity and ease of use. Unlike its predecessor, Paint 3D combined elements of Microsoft Paint with 3D Builder, creating a hybrid 2D-3D editing experience aimed at bringing 3D modeling to the masses. The app's modern design and the ability to create and manipulate 3D objects were key selling points, differentiating it from the traditional Paint.

However, despite the initial fanfare, Paint 3D struggled to gain traction among mainstream Windows users. The app's focus on 3D modeling—a niche interest for most users—limited its appeal. While it offered a unique set of features, it lacked basic photo-editing tools like brightness, contrast, and color tuning, which were available in other, more established photo-editing software.

By mid-2021, Microsoft had already begun to phase out Paint 3D from its default Windows installations. The app, along with 3D Viewer, was removed from the default app install list on Windows 10, meaning users who wanted to use it had to download it separately from the Microsoft Store. This marked the beginning of the end for Paint 3D as a core component of the Windows operating system.

The decision to stop hosting their Paint 3D was not entirely unexpected. For years, the app had been on a downward trajectory, with fewer updates and a shrinking user base. According to famed leaker PhantomofEarth, a banner has begun appearing in the Paint 3D app, informing users that the software will no longer receive updates and will be removed from the Microsoft Store on November 4. Although this banner is not yet visible to all users, it is expected to roll out more widely in the coming days.

Microsoft has not made an official announcement regarding the app's retirement, but the move aligns with the company's broader strategy of streamlining its product offerings. With the removal of Paint 3D, Microsoft appears to be focusing on more popular and widely used applications while letting go of those that failed to meet user expectations.

What this means for users

This news may disappoint users who have relied on Paint 3D for their 3D modeling and creative needs. However, the app will continue to function for those who have it installed, even after it is delisted from the Microsoft Store. Nonetheless, users are advised to seek alternative software solutions, as Paint 3D will no longer receive updates or support from Microsoft.

There are several advanced 3D modeling tools available that offer more comprehensive features than Paint 3D. Programs like Autodesk 3ds Max and Blender provide powerful capabilities for professional and amateur 3D artists alike, making them viable alternatives for those looking to continue their 3D work.