Well, yes. A rectangle with a pattern fill isn't an image. Images can be
converted to vector objects by tracing. Vector objects are already
vector objects. Perhaps "Trace Bitmap" could be generalized if it did a
hidden "Make Bitmap Copy" on the current selection before tracing.
(Hidden meaning that the bitmap copy would be done in memory and not
actually added to the document.)
That's a great idea. This way we could even trace vector objects :)
Which might even make artistic sense - to introduce the characteristic
distortions, etc.
But at what resolution to make this copy? Current zoom? Or some
standard fixed resolution?