Paint.NET to drop support for Windows 7, 8.1, and 32-bit OS versions
Creators will have to use a 64-bit version of Windows 11 or Windows 10 to keep using Paint.NET.
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What you need to know
Paint.NET will no longer support Windows 7, Windows 8.1, or any 32-bit versions of Windows going forward. In the future, only 64-bit versions of Windows 11 and Windows 10 will be supported. The move allows the program’s developer to focus time on supporting the creative app on modern versions of Windows. As a reminder, Windows 11 is only available as a 64-bit operating system, so this change only affects older versions of Windows.
In therelease notes for Paint.NET version 4.3.3, the developer explained why the app will only support 64-bit versions ofWindows 11and Windows 10 going forward.
It has become significantly more difficult and time consuming to support these lately, not very many people are using them, and I can no longer justify the cost and frustration of keeping support for these afloat. Starting with Paint.NET v4.4, only Windows 10 and 11+ will be supported, and only on 64-bit (x64 and ARM64). Once Paint.NET v4.3.3 is released, I will start working on v4.4 and will only release v4.3.x updates on an as-needed basis and only until v4.4 is completed.
Version 4.3.3 migrates Paint.NET To .NET 6. This improves both rendering and startup performance of the application. Here’s the complete list of what’s new, improved, and fixed in Paint.NET:
There are a few different ways to download Paint.NET. It’s available through the Microsoft Store for $7. This cost helps fund the development of the app. You can also get Paint.NET for free through the app’s website or GitHub.
Paint.net is a powerful image editor that’s been around for years. Despite being available for free, it competes with much more expensive pieces of photo editing software.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
