Notepad has seen a major update from Microsoft, turning the outdated plain text editor into a cutting-edge, feature-rich tool that is rapidly gaining popularity among Windows users. This new update was announced by Microsoft in a blog post on Friday.
Notepad, which was once renowned for its simplicity and utility for taking brief notes or performing basic code edits, is now developing into a more powerful and modern program.
Notepad new features
Its modern, streamlined interface is the most obvious modification. Now that Notepad is in line with the Windows 11 design language, it offers a more comfortable experience, particularly in low light conditions, with softened corners, smoother transitions, and improved support for dark mode.
Additionally, functionality has advanced significantly. Users can quickly access text styling options like bold, italic, and hyperlink insertion through a new formatting toolbar located at the top of the application. The toolbar also supports Markdown formatting, which makes it simple for users to create headings and bullet lists.
Additionally, native support for Markdown syntax is introduced in this update. “The experience supports Markdown-style input and files for users who prefer to work directly with the lightweight markup language,” said Dave Grochocki, Principal Product Manager for Windows Inbox Apps at Microsoft. The status bar toggle button or the view menu allows users to switch between formatted Markdown and raw syntax views.
Crucially, Notepad’s primary emphasis on plain text is still present. One click can remove formatting from the Edit menu or toolbar, and the settings menu allows users to completely disable formatting for those who want a tidy, unformatted workspace.
The new “Write” function, which is powered by AI, is another noteworthy feature. With the help of this tool, Notepad can now automatically create text in response to user input, moving it closer to the capabilities typically found in more sophisticated word processors like Microsoft Word. Recently, a Notepad-focused newsletter highlighted the feature, which is currently undergoing testing, as a surprising yet potent improvement.
Discontinuation of WordPad
It’s interesting to note that these changes follow Microsoft’s official retirement of WordPad, its free word processor. Notepad seems to be filling the void left by WordPad’s discontinuation, albeit in a more focused and efficient manner.
Millions of people use Notepad every day, despite the fact that it is still a lightweight program. This most recent update shows that innovation can improve even the most basic tools. A larger effort by Microsoft to update its legacy software and enhance productivity tools throughout the Windows ecosystem includes the redesign of Notepad.
The new Notepad is a powerful evolution rather than merely a visual upgrade thanks to its improved design, expanded functionality, and ongoing user-focused development. Additionally, users can anticipate even more advancements in the near future as Microsoft keeps improving its built-in apps.