Microsoft Revives Classic Edit for the Modern Command Line
In a nostalgic nod to the early days of computing, Microsoft has reintroduced Edit, a text editor that takes users back to the era of DOS and text mode applications. This compact tool, weighing in at under 250 KB, stands in stark contrast to the AI-driven advancements that have characterized recent Windows updates.
Unveiled during the Build conference, Edit is now available as an open-source tool on GitHub, allowing users to download it or even build the source code themselves. Launching Edit transports users back to the time of MS-DOS 5, when it first made its debut, evoking fond memories for those who have navigated the digital landscape for decades.
While the Windows ecosystem has never been short of third-party text editors, the original Microsoft Editor holds a unique place in the hearts of users from a bygone era. It replaced Edlin, a line editor, and continued to exist in 32-bit versions of Windows before it quietly faded from the scene after Windows 10.
Some may argue that the absence of a dedicated text editor from the Windows command line experience has been felt, especially with the evolution of Notepad over the years. Although alternatives like Nano and Vim are available, a built-in solution has been noticeably lacking.
This brings us to what many consider the standout feature of this year’s Microsoft Build: an open-source text editor crafted in Rust, which is set to be integrated into Windows 11. A preview version will soon be accessible to Windows Insiders, offering a glimpse of what’s to come.
The Text-based User Interface (TUI) application retains the charm of its predecessor while incorporating modern enhancements. Users can enjoy mouse support, Unicode compatibility, and menu options equipped with keybindings. Features such as word wrap, Find & Replace, Match Case, and Regular Expression support further enhance its functionality.
Upon testing the preview version, the application demonstrated impressive speed and stability, proving to be a practical tool for quick text file edits directly from the command line, eliminating the need for third-party solutions.
As the tech landscape becomes increasingly saturated with expansive AI innovations and applications that grow larger with each iteration, the return of Edit—with its TUI and lightweight design—offers a refreshing alternative. While there are certainly more compact editors and various options available, launching Edit is not just a functional choice; it’s a delightful trip down memory lane, infused with a touch of modernity.
