Microsoft Removes Paint 3D, Initially Designed to Replace MS Paint in Windows 10 and 11
Microsoft has officially removed the Paint 3D application from the Windows Store. Consequently, users on Windows 10 and 11 can no longer locate, download, or update the Paint 3D app via the Windows Store. Nonetheless, Microsoft has assured users that those who have previously installed the application can continue to utilize it without any issues.
Originally designed to take the place of Microsoft Paint, Paint 3D made its debut in 2017 amid Microsoft’s vision for a future where 3D creativity and Windows Mixed Reality played integral roles. This application provided users with an array of features including 3D brushes, shapes, effects, and a 3D library, all aimed at enabling free 3D artistic creation.
Despite its promising features, Paint 3D never succeeded in establishing itself as a worthy successor to the classic Paint. Microsoft later decided to retain the original Paint application after receiving considerable backlash from users. The company clarified its intentions to support both apps simultaneously.
Although the initial community uproar subsided, it did little to boost the 3D initiative at Microsoft, and Paint 3D failed to resonate with users as anticipated. Download numbers were disappointing, with many users frustrated by the lack of essential features.
In light of this, Microsoft reassessed its strategy, opting to enhance the classic Paint application while putting Paint 3D aside. Ultimately, the company announced the discontinuation of Paint 3D support, indicating its removal in an upcoming software release.
Despite not being the ideal replacement for MS Paint, Paint 3D was recognized by some users as one of the top tools for 3D art creation on Windows. One creator expressed their perspective:
“For me, Paint 3D is more user-friendly as a software developer. Over the years, I have utilized it for creating graphics such as banners and backgrounds. The classic Paint application lacks usability. Why not leave it on the Microsoft Store for downloads and cease updates? Retaining access seems to pose no risk. Personally, I prefer coding on Unix for its lightweight nature, yet Paint 3D has kept me developing on Windows.”
Removal of Paint 3D from the Microsoft Store
Typically, user feedback does not significantly influence Microsoft’s decisions, and the case of Paint 3D is no different.
As of November 4, the Paint 3D app has become unavailable in the United States and various other regions.
Searching for Paint 3D in the Microsoft Store on either Windows 10 or 11 will yield no results. Furthermore, attempting to access the app’s listing will redirect users to the main Microsoft Store page or an error 404 (Not Found) message.
If you already own the Paint 3D application, you will notice a small notification stating, “Paint 3D will no longer be available in the Microsoft Store or receive updates after November 4, 2024.”
In light of recent updates, Microsoft has provided an option to dismiss this notification, allowing continued use of the app even after its removal from the Store.
In our evaluations, Windows Latest found that Paint 3D continues to function adequately; however, some users have reported minor issues following recent updates. For instance, the app no longer appears in the “Open With” options or in the Default Apps settings.
Are you still utilizing Paint 3D? We’ve uploaded a backup to our cloud storage for your convenience.
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