You'll need a Microsoft Account, and an NPU (Copilot+ PC) to use Cocreator in Microsoft Paint

In the ever-evolving landscape of Windows 11, Microsoft has taken a significant leap forward with its AI-powered Paint Cocreator, a feature that’s been making waves since its introduction to Windows 11 Insiders in September 2023.

Fast-forward to now, and it’s not just a select few who can dabble in this innovative tool; Microsoft has rolled it out to all users, albeit with a few prerequisites that might have you raising an eyebrow or two. To start, you’ll need a Microsoft Account (MSA) and a Neural Processing Unit (NPU).

According to the latest blog post, Cocreator in Paint also demands a Copilot+ PC, ensuring that the NPU delivers a performance of 40 TOPS or higher. Sounds like a lot, doesn’t it?

This feature makes use of the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) to generate images locally on your computer. There are no restrictions on how many images you can generate. However, to use Cocreator, you need to sign in with your Microsoft account and be connected to the internet to access cloud services that ensure safe use of AI.  

Microsoft

Let’s dive deeper into what this means for you and me. To use the Cocreator in Paint, your PC must be part of the Copilot+ lineup announced by Microsoft this spring. Once you’ve sorted that and your Microsoft Paint app is updated to the latest version from the Microsoft Store, you’re all set to unleash your creativity.

The process is straightforward: open Paint, hit the Cocreator icon, and start sketching your masterpiece with a mouse or stylus. Your text prompts can be as descriptive as you want—think “a cat in a garden” or “a spaceship in the sky.”

As you sketch, AI works its magic in the background, bringing your vision to life with a dash of its creativity, which you can adjust to your liking.

But here’s the kicker: to access this feature, you need to be signed in to your Microsoft account and connected to the internet. Why? The Cocreator leverages cloud services for a safe AI experience, ensuring that the generated content is free from harm or offense.

Microsoft is quite serious about privacy and ethical AI use. It employs Azure’s online services for content filtering. This means that while you’re creating, Microsoft ensures that nothing inappropriate slips through the cracks.

Now, the NPU requirement is particularly interesting for tech enthusiasts wondering about the nuts and bolts of this feature.

NPUs are specialized hardware designed to efficiently process AI and machine learning tasks, which explains why Cocreator can offer such a seamless and responsive experience. However, this also means that not every Windows 11 machine will be compatible with Cocreator, at least not without the right hardware.

In a world where AI’s role in creativity is becoming more prominent, Microsoft’s Paint Cocreator is a fascinating blend of traditional artistry and modern technology. It’s a glimpse into the future of digital art, where the barriers between human creativity and AI’s capabilities blur, offering endless possibilities for artists and hobbyists alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just like to doodle, the Cocreator in Paint could be your gateway to exploring new horizons in digital artistry, provided you have the right tools.