Image editor GIMP 3.2 gets closer with two new features: link layers and vector layers

GIMP 3.1.4 has been released as the latest version of the free and open source image editor. This update stands out for introducing early implementations of two GIMP 3.2 roadmap features: link layers and vector layers. Link layers let users add external image files — such as SVGs — as layers in a project. When those linked files are edited in tools like Inkscape, GIMP reflects changes in real time. Users can also scale or rotate link layers non-destructively, keeping the original image quality intact.

Building on this, vector layers allow you to create shapes with customizable fill and stroke properties. You can modify the vector path, adjust color settings, and apply transformations without losing sharpness, all in a non-destructive workflow. This enables more flexible layer management for those working with both raster and vector graphics.

In addition to these headline features, the new GEGL Filter Browser displays all GEGL operations and filter usage details, making filter discovery easier. The updated MyPaint code adds version 2 brush support, allowing brush strokes to respond to canvas zoom and rotation. Further improvements include enhancements to the text tool, expanded plugin support for HRZ, TIFF, JPEG 2000 signed images, non-DXT PAA textures, Seattle Filmworks formats, as well as overall user experience improvements and bug fixes.