GIMP 3.0 is here, bringing with it a series of significant improvements that solidify it as a strong alternative to commercial image editors. This new version introduces a modernized interface, new features for non-destructive editing, and better support for image formats. Below, we explore the main highlights.
Revamped Interface and Improved User Experience
One of the most visible changes in GIMP 3.0 is its new GTK3-based interface. This update not only enhances the software's appearance but also optimizes navigation through the use of the mouse wheel to switch between dockable tabs. Additionally, it now includes a new logo and a redesigned welcome screen to facilitate initial customization. Among the visual updates, there is also a CSS-based theme system, allowing users to create and apply their own interface styles. Furthermore, an option has been added to merge the menu bar and title bar, offering a cleaner and more minimalist look.
Non-Destructive Editing and Advanced Tools
Non-destructive editing has been one of the most requested features by the community, and GIMP 3.0 finally incorporates it. Filters and effects can now be applied without altering the original image, enabling post-adjustments without losing information. Additionally, GEGL filters can be flexibly enabled, disabled, removed, or merged within saved XCF files. The addition of new inline editing options allows text manipulation with effects such as shadows, outlines, and bevels without compromising editability. Similarly, copy and paste now creates a new layer by default, optimizing workflow. Other improvements include:
- Automatic layer expansion when drawing outside bounds.
- Layer search by name.
- Enhanced selection tool with new stroke options.
- Improved support for Adobe Photoshop PSD files, including 16 bits per channel and metadata export.
Performance and Compatibility Improvements
Performance has also received a significant boost with GIMP 3.0. It now uses cache rendering and thread-safe processing to accelerate heavy tasks. Image loading times from cloud storage or remote servers have been optimized, and compatibility with RGB color spaces beyond sRGB, including AdobeRGB, has been improved. GIMP 3.0 also expands its compatibility with new file formats:
- Support for PSB and JPEG-XL.
- Support for DDS files with BC7 compression.
- Lossless import and export for BMP files.
- Support for 16-bit uncompressed ABR brushes.
Installing GIMP 3.0
For Linux users, GIMP 3.0 is available as a Flatpak package on Flathub, ensuring easy installation and automatic updates. It can also be downloaded as an AppImage, an ideal option to run it without installation. Additionally, Ubuntu users can opt for the Snap version or install the official package from GIMP's website. For Windows and macOS, GIMP 3.0 is available on the project's official website as an installer.
Conclusion
GIMP 3.0 represents a massive update for this open-source image editor, offering substantial improvements in interface, tools, and performance. With its new non-destructive editing capability, expanded file format support, and more modern interface, GIMP continues to establish itself as one of the best free options for designers and photographers. Download it and try all its new features!
