Recently, I found myself immersed in a sprawling Notepad document, searching for a crucial detail hidden amidst a vast expanse of text. It was akin to hunting for a needle in a haystack. Therefore, I was genuinely excited to learn that Microsoft is currently testing AI-powered summaries in Windows Notepad, a feature now being rolled out to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev channels. At last, a more intelligent method to navigate my notes!
AI-Powered Summaries in Notepad
The new ‘Summarize’ feature in Notepad harnesses the power of AI to generate concise summaries of notes with remarkable ease. Users can simply highlight the desired text, right-click, and select ‘Summarize.’ Alternatively, the Ctrl + M shortcut or the Copilot menu can be utilized to access this innovative feature. To take advantage of these AI capabilities, a Microsoft account is necessary, and Microsoft 365 subscribers will utilize their AI credits when employing this functionality. For those who prefer the classic Notepad experience, there is an option to disable AI features in the settings.
In addition to AI summaries, Microsoft is enhancing Notepad with a ‘recently closed files’ feature, which facilitates quick access to documents that were previously closed. Furthermore, the Snipping Tool is set to receive a ‘draw & hold’ feature, allowing users to draw straight lines and shapes with greater ease, mirroring functionalities available on other platforms.
Microsoft’s initiative is part of a broader trend in the tech industry. Google has also introduced AI-generated summaries in Google Docs via its Duet AI, enabling users to condense lengthy documents and extract essential insights swiftly. Similarly, Notion has integrated AI to summarize notes, answer queries, and organize content more effectively, highlighting the growing importance of AI-powered tools in enhancing productivity across various platforms.
By incorporating AI into Notepad, a staple application within the Windows ecosystem, Microsoft is not only modernizing a beloved tool but also setting the stage for more intelligent and user-friendly software experiences. This move reflects a significant shift towards more intuitive and efficient text editing, aligning seamlessly with the ongoing trend of AI integration in software applications.
