Microsoft launches Windows AI Labs for testing experimental AI features

Microsoft has quietly launched Windows AI Labs, a new pilot program designed to give select users early access to experimental artificial intelligence features across Windows applications, with Microsoft Paint serving as the first testing ground.The program surfaced when Windows testers discovered references to Windows AI Labs in pre-release Paint updates last week. Microsoft confirmed the initiative to The Verge, describing it as "a pilot acceleration program for validating novel AI feature ideas in Windows.""The program focuses on rapid customer feedback on feature usability, customer interest, and market fit," said Mike Harsh, partner director of product management at Microsoft, in a statement to The Verge.Users invited to the program see a pop-up notification in Paint's top-right corner prompting them to "Try experimental AI features in Paint." Clicking the invitation opens Windows Settings, where users can sign up for the beta testing program. However, the backend system isn't fully operational yet, suggesting Microsoft may have accidentally activated the feature prematurely.The Windows AI Labs agreement warns participants that features are in preview stages and may not meet typical Windows app quality standards. Microsoft emphasizes that experimental features could be modified significantly or canceled entirely before any potential public release.While specific Paint AI features remain unclear, the timing aligns with Microsoft's recent additions of Photoshop-like capabilities to Paint, including transparency support, layers, and .paint project files. The company has been systematically integrating AI across Windows applications, adding features like AI-powered actions in File Explorer and image generation in Paint.The program mirrors Google's Search Labs, which provides early access to experimental search features. Microsoft's approach suggests the company is accelerating AI feature development while gathering user feedback to refine capabilities before broader deployment across the Windows ecosystem.