This follows in the footsteps of Adobe Photoshop. Users can still choose to save in formats like JPEG and PNG but will have to 'export' the project instead of saving. GIMP now only saves to its own XCF format to retain layers and other file manipulation information. One of the major advantages of GIMP using GEGL is the ability for non-destructive editing and high bit-depth images. GIMP developers hope to move entirely to GEGL by version 2.10. GEGL was introduced a couple of years back in a developer version and has now made its way into the sable, consumer version. Other updated features include easier text editing, nested layer groups, and a shift to using the Generic Graphics Library (GEGL), which is a more sophisticated image processing framework. While single-window mode is great, it is also disappointing that there is no way to view multiple projects side by side.

GIMP versions of the past drew criticism for their confusing interfaces, but the developers are addressing many of these issues in this newest version. The biggest interface addition is the ability to edit in a single-window. GIMP has now been updated with many user interface tweaks to make the application accessible to newbies. There is even a way to animate your creations. You can crop, add text, resize, and create nested layers. GIMP also allows users to manipulate images imported into the program.

Power users can create their own brushes and patterns to use later. You can create your own images with tools for airbrushing, penciling, cloning, and creating gradients. All the features of GIMP are still present.

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