Windows 11 users are now experiencing a notable enhancement in their Notepad application with the introduction of an AI-powered Rewrite feature. This functionality, which had previously been under testing, is rolling out globally, although Microsoft has yet to make an official announcement regarding its launch.
According to reports from Windows Latest, the latest version of Notepad (v11.2412.16.0) includes this innovative Rewrite feature, which allows users to transform their text with the assistance of AI, specifically powered by ChatGPT. Interestingly, while Microsoft’s documentation still categorizes this feature as being in the testing phase within the Canary and Dev channels, it appears to be fully operational for all users of the finished version of the operating system.
Initially, the Rewrite feature was limited to users in the United States during its testing phase, but its swift rollout indicates a significant shift in accessibility for users worldwide.
How it works – and the limitations of Rewrite
The Rewrite feature operates similarly to other AI-driven text modification tools found in applications like Word and Copilot. Users can select a portion of text, activate the Rewrite function, and the AI will generate alternative phrasings based on user-defined parameters such as tone, length, and format. This process allows users to review three distinct rewrites and select the one that best fits their needs.
However, there is a notable limitation to this functionality: access to Rewrite requires a Microsoft 365 subscription. Users must be signed in to utilize this feature, which has led to some confusion among those unfamiliar with the subscription model. While it may seem that the feature is entirely behind a paywall, there is a system of ‘credits’ in place. In regions such as the US, Canada, and the UK, users receive a limited number of free credits, which provide a brief glimpse into the capabilities of Rewrite.
This effectively positions the Rewrite feature as a premium offering within Notepad, catering primarily to subscribers. Critics of this development may argue that it contributes to the ongoing debate about Notepad’s evolving identity, as some users feel that the introduction of such features detracts from its original purpose as a straightforward text editor.
