Windows 11’s Notepad app has recently undergone a transformation, introducing new formatting capabilities that enhance its functionality. This update marks a shift towards making Notepad more akin to WordPad, a more feature-rich text editor that Microsoft retired last year. According to reports from Windows Latest, users have begun receiving the update through the Microsoft Store, bringing these new features to the stable version of Windows 11, as opposed to the previously tested builds.
The reception of this update has been decidedly mixed, with discussions on platforms like Reddit revealing a divide among users. On one side, there are those who embrace the changes, particularly individuals who fondly remember WordPad and appreciate the added capabilities that Notepad now offers. These users see the enhancements as a valuable upgrade that fills the void left by WordPad’s discontinuation.
Analysis: bolstered or bloated?
Conversely, a significant number of users express concern that Microsoft is merely bloating Notepad with unnecessary features. This apprehension stems from a history of incremental updates that have gradually expanded Notepad’s capabilities. Critics argue that this trend could lead to a less responsive application, undermining its original purpose as a quick and efficient text editor.
However, it is worth noting that these new formatting options are not mandatory. Microsoft has incorporated a simple toggle feature that allows users to disable formatting with a single click. By clicking on the ‘Formatted’ label at the bottom of the app window, users can revert to the traditional, streamlined experience that Notepad has long been known for. This flexibility aims to address concerns from users who prefer the app’s original simplicity while still accommodating those who welcome its evolution.
As the rollout continues, it remains to be seen how the broader user base will adapt to these changes and whether Microsoft will further refine Notepad in response to feedback. For now, the app stands at a crossroads, balancing the demands for enhanced functionality with the desire for a lightweight editing tool.
