Notepad text editor Archives

Winsage

April 7, 2026

Notepad (25H2)

Microsoft has transformed its Notepad text editor in Windows 11, introducing features such as a tabbed user interface, basic session state management, a "Recent files" option, and AI-driven writing tools. Notepad now supports Markdown markup language for light formatting and includes customizable settings for themes, fonts, document opening preferences, and the ability to disable certain features. Users can access AI writing tools through a Copilot button, which requires a Microsoft account and an active Microsoft 365 subscription. The classic Notepad version is still available, allowing users to revert to the previous interface, although it cannot be set as the default app for text files.

Winsage

May 23, 2025

In 3.5 years, Notepad.exe has gone from “barely maintained” to “it writes for you”

By late 2021, Windows’ Notepad text editor had not seen significant changes for a long time, but updates began to increase, reflecting a trend toward integrating generative AI technologies. In November, Microsoft started testing an update that allows users to rewrite or summarize text using generative AI. A new feature called Write enables users to generate text from scratch based on simple instructions, requiring a Microsoft Account for access and utilizing monthly AI credits. Users without a paid Microsoft 365 subscription receive 15 credits per month, while subscribers with Personal and Family plans receive 60 credits. All AI functionalities in Notepad can be disabled in the app's settings, and these features are unavailable to local account users. Additionally, Microsoft is rolling out preview updates for Paint and Snipping Tool, introducing AI tools like a sticker generator and an AI-powered smart select tool, along with a welcome experience screen for new users.

Winsage

July 10, 2024

Windows Notepad Text Editor Gets Spell Check After 41 Years

- New spell-check feature in Notepad works similarly to word processors - Autocorrect option available to fix common typing errors - Users can toggle spell check and autocorrect features off in settings - Spell check automatically disabled for certain file types - Notepad has received other updates with Windows 11 - Microsoft is retiring WordPad in favor of enhancing Notepad - Addition of spell check and autocorrect is a significant milestone for Notepad - Generally positive response to the new features

Winsage

July 8, 2024

Over 40 years later, Windows’ Notepad finally has spell check

Microsoft has upgraded Notepad with spell check and auto-correct features, including character counts, tabbed viewing, and support for Windows dark mode.