On March 16, 2025, the GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP) team announced the official release of GIMP 3.0, a culmination of seven years of dedicated development since GIMP 2.10’s debut in 2018.
Key Highlights of GIMP 3.0:
- Non-Destructive Editing: Users can now apply and adjust filters without permanently altering the original image, with real-time, on-canvas previews enhancing the editing experience.
- Expanded File Format Support: GIMP 3.0 introduces compatibility with additional file formats, including BC7 DDS and improved PSD export, facilitating smoother workflows across different applications.
- Dynamic Layer Management: The new version allows paint tools to automatically expand layers as needed, eliminating the need for manual adjustments during the creative process.
- Advanced Text Styling: Users can style text with outlines, shadows, bevels, and more, while retaining the ability to edit the text’s content, font, and size, offering greater flexibility in design.
- Enhanced Layer Organization: The capability to select and manipulate multiple layers simultaneously streamlines complex editing tasks, improving overall efficiency.
- Improved Color Management: Ongoing enhancements in color management reaffirm GIMP’s commitment to providing advanced image editing capabilities for diverse user needs.
- Updated User Interface: Transitioning to the GTK3 graphical toolkit, GIMP 3.0 offers a modernized interface that aligns with contemporary desktop environments.
- Revamped Wilber Logo: The release features a refreshed version of GIMP’s mascot, Wilber, symbolizing the project’s evolution.
For a comprehensive overview of all changes and improvements, users are encouraged to consult the official release notes.
GIMP 3.0 represents a significant milestone in the evolution of this open-source image editor, offering users enhanced features and a modernized experience. The development team expresses enthusiasm for the future, hinting at more advancements on the horizon.
Users can download GIMP 3.0 directly from the official Downloads page. GIMP
To support ongoing development and future enhancements, the GIMP team welcomes donations, which can be made through their donation page.
With the release of GIMP 3.0, the software continues to solidify its position as a powerful, free, and open-source tool for image editing, catering to both amateur and professional users worldwide.