After seven years of work, the GNU Image Herfer Program (GIMP) team has officially released the GIMP 3.0, which is a major update for the popular open-source image editor.
A foundation stone of the latest release is an infection in the GTK3 graphical user interface library, replacing the old GTK2. This upgrade is asked to increase the performance of the application and introduces a more contemporary and responsible user interface. GIMP 3.0 also shows non-destructive editing capabilities for commonly used filters. This feature allows users to preview a direct change in real time on the canvas.
GIMP 3.0 now supports the selection of several layers simultaneously, responding to user requests for a long time. This growth streamlines complex editing functions, allowing users to impact, change or apply at the several layers simultaneously.
The update text also brings significant improvement in handling. Users can now style the text with the outline, shadow, bewells, and more, maintaining the ability to edit the text material, change fonts and adjust sizes. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for designers, which is aimed at creating professional-quality text elements within its projects.
Compatibility and performance have been further enhanced with the introduction of Yland support on the Linux system. This allows for better integration with modern performance servers, providing a smooth user experience. Additionally, GIMP 3.0 offers better HIDPI support, providing sharp visuals on high-resolution display, and increased integration for WACOM Tablet, benefiting digital artists who rely on accurate input equipment.
Plugin ecosystem has also seen a sufficient increase. The GIMP 3.0 Python 3 expands the support for the extensions written in JavaScript, Lua, and Vala, giving developers more flexibility to increase the functionality of the application. With this, file format compatibility has been increased, allowing the exchange of files with a wide range of applications. In particular, now BC7 DDS is supported for files and PSD export capabilities have been improved, making it easier for users to cooperate in various platforms and software. The GIMP development team has also emphasized color management.
GIMP 3.0 is now accessible on GNU/Linux, Macos and Windows, and can be downloaded directly from the GIMP website. GIMP Development Team plans to accelerate the release cycle for the 3.x series, with GIMP 3.2 expected within a year. The company says that their focus is on giving updates more often, even if each version introduces less new features. This approach ensures that users get improved and enhancement more quickly.
