text editing Archives

Winsage

March 18, 2025

Windows Notepad is Getting AI Summaries

Microsoft is testing AI-powered summaries in Windows Notepad, currently being rolled out to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev channels. The 'Summarize' feature allows users to generate concise summaries by highlighting text and selecting 'Summarize' or using the Ctrl + M shortcut. A Microsoft account is required, and Microsoft 365 subscribers will use AI credits for this feature. Users can disable AI features if they prefer the classic Notepad experience. Additionally, Notepad will include a 'recently closed files' feature for quick access to previously closed documents.

Winsage

March 14, 2025

Notepad will soon automatically summarize your notes with AI

Notepad is introducing an AI-powered summarization feature in version 11.2501.29.0, currently being rolled out to Windows Insiders. Users can highlight text and select 'Summarize' or use the Ctrl + M shortcut to generate a summary, with adjustable summary lengths. The feature can be disabled in app settings and requires a Microsoft personal account. This new capability complements the existing 'Rewrite' function, which allows users to modify text for different lengths and tones. Additionally, a 'Recent Files' option has been added to the File menu for easier access to recently used documents, which can also be disabled.

Winsage

March 4, 2025

I told Windows Notepad’s new AI to turn Nvidia’s fail into poetry

Microsoft has introduced AI-powered rewrite capabilities in Notepad, now available to all users after testing. This feature, accessible via a "magic pen" icon for Microsoft 365 subscribers, allows users to refine and transform existing text rather than generate new content. Users can copy and paste text into Notepad, highlight it, and request rewrites in various styles, including simplification, length alteration, and tone changes. The feature also offers formatting options such as lists, business memos, academic pieces, marketing content, or poems. A settings menu allows users to disable the Rewrite function, and using it consumes AI credits from Microsoft 365 subscriptions. Performance may vary, with some builds providing only cosmetic edits, while stable versions have received positive feedback for effectively simplifying complex articles.

Winsage

March 3, 2025

5 reasons why you should use Notepad++ instead of Notepad on Windows 11

Notepad++ is an open-source text editing application that serves as a comprehensive replacement for the basic Notepad in Windows 11. It supports a wide range of file types beyond the limited formats of Notepad, including XML and JSON with proper formatting through plugins. Notepad++ offers syntax highlighting for over 80 programming languages, enhancing readability and reducing errors. It includes an advanced find and replace function with Regular Expressions (RegEx) for efficient bulk text editing. The application features a focused clipboard history that allows users to retrieve previously copied text easily. Additionally, Notepad++ has a rich plugin ecosystem that enables users to expand its functionality with features like spellcheck, FTP support, and code execution for various programming languages.

Winsage

February 18, 2025

Microsoft just put this controversial Notepad feature behind a paywall

Microsoft's Notepad has received updates, including a new character count feature, while maintaining its core functionality as a free application that does not require an account for standard use. Users are prompted to sign in to a Microsoft account only if they wish to access the AI-powered Rewrite feature, which requires a paid Microsoft 365 subscription. The introduction of premium functionalities suggests a shift towards a "freemium" model, allowing basic use without payment, while advanced features necessitate a subscription.

Winsage

February 18, 2025

Seen those complaints online about having to sign in to your Microsoft account to use Windows 11’s Notepad app? It’s all a load of hot air

Recent updates to the Notepad application in Windows 11 have led to confusion among users regarding the need for a Microsoft account. The new AI feature called Rewrite requires a sign-in to access, but this is not necessary for general use of the app. Users can choose to close the sign-in prompt if they do not wish to log in, but they will be unable to use the AI functionality. There is growing frustration among users about the increasing prompts for Microsoft account registration across platforms. Additionally, enhancements to Notepad, such as dark mode and multi-step undo, have raised concerns about the app becoming bloated and less responsive, prompting some users to consider alternatives like Notepad++ or Sublime Text for a more streamlined experience.

Winsage

February 17, 2025

7 alternatives to built-in Windows tools that will blow you away

- Process Lasso is a powerful alternative to Task Manager, offering features like dynamic CPU adjustments and SmartTrim memory management. - Notepad++ is a text editor that supports multiple programming languages, syntax highlighting, and includes macros and plugins. - 7-Zip is a file compression tool that handles various formats and allows users to split, merge, and encrypt files. - Everything is a search tool that quickly finds files and folders, scanning both names and document contents. - Audacity is a multitrack digital audio workstation for recording audio, supporting various formats and real-time effects. - Flow Launcher allows users to launch files, folders, applications, and websites without using the Start menu. - VLC Media Player plays a wide range of audio and video file formats and offers features like file conversion and live stream recording.

Winsage

February 17, 2025

No, Notepad for Windows 11 doesn’t require you to use a Microsoft account — unless you’re trying to use AI

A screenshot shared on Twitter by @TheBobPony showed a forced sign-in screen for a Microsoft account when trying to access Notepad, causing concern among Windows 11 users. However, most users do not encounter this pop-up unless they misclick, and the core functionality of Notepad remains unchanged. Features that require sign-in are related to generative AI, which are not mandatory for basic use. Notepad++ is suggested as an alternative for those who prefer a straightforward text editing experience.

Winsage

February 12, 2025

8 Old Windows Apps That Are Still Around in Windows 11

Windows 11 includes several classic applications that remain relevant and functional for users: - Notepad: A simple text editor for quick note-taking and code editing. - Paint: A basic graphics editor for quick sketches and image editing. - Calculator: An evolved multifunctional application that includes scientific and graphing capabilities. - Windows Media Player: A reliable option for playing local media files. - WordPad: A formatted text editing experience between Notepad and full-fledged word processors. - Snipping Tool: A utility for capturing screenshots easily. - Task Manager: A tool for monitoring system performance and troubleshooting issues. - Control Panel: A powerful tool for advanced system management options.

Winsage

December 24, 2024

Free Guide – How to Edit a PDF File on Windows 10

Editing PDF files on Windows 10 is often necessary for correcting errors, filling out forms, adding comments, or updating information. Various free PDF editors are available online, including Tenorshare PDNob, which offers a free month of premium features. To edit a PDF using Microsoft Word, open the program, select the PDF file, and make edits after it converts to an editable format. Adobe Acrobat allows for professional editing but requires a subscription for advanced features. Tenorshare PDNob provides a free solution with features like text editing, file conversion, compression, watermark removal, image extraction, and secure editing. Windows 10 does not include a built-in PDF editor, but it has Microsoft Edge for basic viewing and annotations. Editing a PDF file is possible with tools like Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat, or dedicated editors like Tenorshare PDNob.