We find ourselves in a remarkable era, one that could be aptly described as the “AI-fication of everything.” Even the most unassuming software, such as Notepad, has embraced this transformation, surprising many who believed it would remain untouched by the wave of artificial intelligence.
Introducing AI Features to Notepad
The latest addition to this venerable text editor is a feature named Rewrite, powered by Microsoft’s advanced GPT AI model. This tool is designed to enhance the writing experience by rephrasing sentences, adjusting tone, and modifying text length according to user preferences.
To utilize this feature, users simply highlight the text they wish to alter, right-click to access the context menu, and select the Rewrite option. Alternatively, the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + I can be employed, or users can click directly on the Rewrite button in the toolbar. Once activated, the feature presents three options for text modification: altering length, changing tone (from casual to professional, for example), and adjusting format. After making selections, Notepad generates three variations of the text, allowing users to choose their preferred refinement.
Currently, the Rewrite feature is accessible exclusively to Windows Insiders participating in the Canary and Dev channels of Windows 11. These channels serve as a testing ground where Microsoft showcases upcoming products to a dedicated community, gathering valuable feedback for further development. Presently, the feature is available in preview mode to users in the U.S., France, the UK, Canada, Italy, and Germany. Additionally, those with a Microsoft 365 Personal or Family subscription, or a Copilot Pro subscription, can access it in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Taiwan.
As the feature prepares for a broader rollout, users will need to sign in with their Microsoft accounts and have available credits to utilize the GPT model. Initially, Microsoft will provide each user with 50 complimentary credits, with notifications sent when balances run low. Users can either wait for automatic replenishment at the start of the following month or purchase additional credits through the Copilot Pro subscription if immediate access is required.
This credit system raises questions about user reception, particularly given that AI-assisted writing is often available for free on competing platforms. With Apple integrating similar features into their Mac systems, this development may be viewed as Microsoft’s strategic response.
Notepad is not the only classic application to receive a modern makeover; Microsoft Paint has also been updated with AI capabilities. The new Generative Fill feature allows users to transform written prompts into visual objects on their canvas, while the Generative Erase tool enables the removal of unwanted elements from artwork, reminiscent of the Pixel’s renowned Magic Eraser.
