The GIMP project has released version 3.2 of its open source image editor, continuing the steady stream of updates that followed last year’s GIMP 3.0 release. The new version adds a mix of workflow improvements, new creative tools, and broader file format support.
One of the more interesting additions is support for non-destructive layers. With the new Link Layers feature, users can place external images into a project while keeping the original file untouched. The linked image can be scaled, rotated, or transformed without losing quality, and if the source file changes, the layer updates automatically.
GIMP 3.2 also introduces vector layers. Using the Path tool, users can now create shapes with adjustable fills and strokes. That makes it easier to produce scalable graphics, and it also enables new export options such as SVG output along with expanded vector capabilities when exporting PDFs.
Artists who rely on digital painting tools get a few upgrades too. The MyPaint Brush tool now includes 20 new brushes and adapts automatically when you zoom or rotate the canvas. A new Overwrite paint mode lets users paint directly over existing colors without blending transparency.
The text tool has also received some practical improvements. The on canvas text editor can now be repositioned around the canvas, and it supports familiar shortcuts such as Ctrl B for bold text and Shift Ctrl V for pasting unformatted text. The Text Outline feature has also gained additional controls.
File format compatibility continues to improve as well. GIMP 3.2 adds DDS BC7 export support and improves how PSD files are imported, including better handling of layer styles. With the addition of vector layers, the application can now export SVG files too.
There are also smaller interface tweaks throughout the program. Brush thumbnails can now use theme colors in dark mode, images can be dragged directly onto an image tab to open them, and tools such as Shear and Flip now support keyboard shortcuts. The application can also match its theme automatically to the color scheme used by the operating system.
For users preparing images for print, the CMYK color selector now shows total ink coverage. That helps designers avoid exceeding printer limits during soft proofing.
Developers also get a new GEGL filter browser, which makes it easier to find and use non destructive filters when building scripts or plug ins.
Alongside the release of GIMP 3.2, the project also updated two related components: babl 0.1.124 and GEGL 0.4.68. Documentation specifically for version 3.2 is still being prepared, so for now the project recommends continuing to reference the GIMP 3.0 documentation.
GIMP remains one of the most widely used open source graphics editors, especially among Linux users who prefer free software over subscription based creative tools. Version 3.2 continues the project’s effort to modernize the application while keeping it accessible to everyone.
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