The GNU Image Manipulation Program has officially released version 3.0, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of this open-source image editor. After seven years of rigorous development, GIMP 3.0 introduces a host of enhancements aimed at both amateur and professional users.
One of the most anticipated features in this release is the introduction of non-destructive editing for commonly used filters. This advancement allows users to modify filters applied hours earlier, with real-time on-canvas previews facilitating a more intuitive editing experience.
The transition to GTK3, a modern user interface toolkit, is another cornerstone of GIMP 3.0. This shift not only modernizes the software’s appearance but also enhances compatibility with high-resolution displays and improves support for graphics tablets. Additionally, GIMP 3.0 now offers native support for Wayland on Linux systems, ensuring better integration and performance across various environments.
File format compatibility has been significantly expanded in this update. Users can now exchange files with a broader range of applications, including support for BC7 DDS files and improved PSD export functionality. This enhancement streamlines workflows for professionals collaborating across different platforms and software.
In response to user feedback, GIMP 3.0 introduces a feature that allows paint tools to automatically expand layers as needed. This functionality addresses the common challenge of determining appropriate canvas sizes during the creative process, offering a more seamless and flexible editing experience.
The development journey to GIMP 3.0 has been extensive, reflecting the project’s commitment to delivering a robust and versatile tool for the global community. This release not only modernizes the software’s infrastructure but also lays the groundwork for more frequent and feature-rich updates in the future.
