GIMP Introduces Enhanced Gradient Features Ahead of 30 Launch
GIMP gears up for its anticipated 30 release, introducing exciting new gradient options This update, possibly the penultimate release, showcases the software's commitment to innovation and enhances the user experience
The latest release of GIMP (version 2.10.36) brings exciting enhancements, such as a new gradient tool and support for additional palette formats. Furthermore, this release signifies a significant milestone as it is expected to be the second-to-last version in the 2.10 series, hinting at the imminent arrival of the long-awaited GIMP 3.0. Even if you are not particularly interested in the current update, the GIMP Team strongly recommends installing it for essential security fixes.
The standout feature of this update is undoubtedly GIMP's latest addition, the "FG to Transparent (Hardedge)" gradient option. With this option, you can effortlessly create captivating designs like pinstripes, scan lines, targets, and swirls, all with distinct sharp transparent edges. The possibilities become even more exciting when exploring the "Repeat" option menu, where you can generate tiled patterns of swirls or experiment with unconventional patterns inspired by a sawtooth wave.
In addition to various improvements, this GIMP update introduces support for Adobe Swatch Exchange (ASE) and Adobe Color Book (ACB) color palettes, expanding the palette options to include those designed for Photoshop. This feature proves especially valuable for users who enjoy incorporating third-party materials into their projects. Furthermore, GIMP now allows the loading of non-square aspect ratio GIFs, although enabling "Dot for Dot" in the view menu may cause these GIFs to appear distorted. Additionally, the GIMP Team has addressed four vulnerabilities associated with the PSD, PSP, and DDS file formats.
This release of GIMP may serve as the second-to-last update before the anticipated launch of GIMP 3.0, although an official release date for GIMP 3.0 is yet to be confirmed. Considering the previous delay, it is possible that further postponements could occur. Once GIMP 3.0 is released, it will utilize GTK3, resulting in a more modern user interface and improved scaling for high-DPI screens. Alongside these enhancements, new features can be expected; however, specific details beyond the GIMP 3.0 roadmap are yet to be disclosed.
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The latest updates for GIMP should be manually installed from the gimp.org website, as always. If the new gradient or palette features are not of interest to you, it is still recommended to install this update for its security fixes. Please be aware that the release for macOS x86 and macOS Apple Silicon versions may experience slight delays.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan, I am excited about the new gradient features in GIMP. The "FG to Transparent (Hardedge)" gradient option will allow me to create captivating designs with sharp transparent edges. I can't wait to experiment with this new feature and see what I can create.
The support for Adobe Swatch Exchange (ASE) and Adobe Color Book (ACB) color palettes is also a welcome addition. This will make it easier for me to incorporate third-party materials into my projects. I'm also glad that GIMP now allows the loading of non-square aspect ratio GIFs. This will make it easier for me to use GIFs in my projects.
