Cannot edit files when in bitmap format in Photoshop 25.3.1

Forum|Forum|2 years ago
January 2, 2024
3 replies
1904 views

As of about a week ago, I noticed that I cannot make edits to files when they are bitmapped. Attempting to apply text, use brushes, or pencil, etc., results in getting the "cannot use the brush tool because of a program error" prompt. I have followed all of the instructions on how to fix this (detailed at https://helpx.adobe.com/photoshop/kb/program-error-opening-psd.html), I've reset my Photoshop settings, uninstalled Photoshop, installed (at different times) the previous version and the current version of Photoshop, and confirmed the latest version of Sonoma (14.2.1) was installed. Still I get this error.

The only clue/oddity is that I can make edits/use the brush tool when the mode is change to greyscale. But converting it back to bitmap results in the same error returning. All bitmap method options result in the same result.

macOS

mmoringAuthor

Participating Frequently

As an update/clue, this seems to have nothing to do with the version of Photoshop. I've done clean installs, & rolled back to previous versions.

I have noticed, though, that the basic tools which have always worked on bitmaps indeed work on newly-created files. But older files seem to continue to have this limitaiton.

Jeff Arola

Community Expert

Yes for me macOS Ventura and Sonoma have the error with photoshop 2024 (ps ver 25.3.1) but not macOS Monterey.

Stephen Marsh

Community Expert

Most functions are unavailable in Bitmap mode, this is by design. You can use the pencil tool to draw, but not a brush tool to paint. There are only 2 values, pure white or pure black, no shades of gray.

So yes, working in grayscale or RGB mode will allow more functionality.

Usually converting to Bitmap mode would be the last step in many workflows where 1-bit data is required.

The pencil tool should work though!

mmoringAuthor

Participating Frequently

Understood that tool options are limited in bitmap format, but the bare essentials (eraser, pencil, lasso & delete, among others) result in this "program error" prompt.

Stephen Marsh

Community Expert

Ps 25.3.1 on Monterey 12.7.2 (Intel processor) works fine.

So perhaps either an "M" chip and or Sonoma issue. What processor type are you using?

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