Microsoft has officially transformed one of Windows’ most iconic apps “Notepad” with the introduction of Copilot+ for Notepad, a built-in AI assistant that elevates the lightweight text editor into a powerful writing and productivity tool. Rolling out now to Windows 11 Insiders (build 27808+), this update marks the most significant evolution in Notepad’s 42-year history.
By integrating a version of Microsoft’s Phi-3 small language model, Notepad can now rewrite text, explain content, summarize notes, generate formatted output, and enhance writing—all without leaving the app. For users on Copilot+ PCs, the model even runs locally, ensuring speed and privacy.
What Is Copilot+ for Notepad?
Copilot+ for Notepad is a native AI assistant embedded directly into the Windows 11 Notepad app. Instead of switching to a browser or a separate AI tool, users can now perform intelligent text operations with a single click or keyboard shortcut.
This feature aligns with Microsoft’s broader goal: to modernize classic Windows apps without compromising simplicity.
Key Features of Microsoft’s New Notepad AI
1. Integrated AI Assistant
Copilot+ introduces an AI panel within Notepad that allows users to:
- Rewrite selected content
- Simplify or explain complex text
- Summarize long notes
- Convert raw text into formatted Markdown
- Edit tone and clarity
- Provide custom transformations (e.g., “roast this,” “rewrite politely,” etc.)
2. Local Phi-3 Model Processing (Copilot+ PCs)
- Uses a lightweight version of Phi-3, running on-device through the NPU.
- Ensures privacy, since text does not leave the machine.
- Provides near-instant responses.
3. Cloud Processing for Other Windows 11 Devices
- Users on standard hardware get cloud-based AI processing.
- Still free and private, with Microsoft emphasizing secure handling.
4. Natural Streaming Responses
- Answers now appear letter by letter, similar to ChatGPT, making the experience more conversational.
5. Easy Activation
- Click the sparkle icon in Notepad’s toolbar
- Or use Alt + Space to trigger the assistant
6. Fully Optional and User-Controlled
- Requires one-time Microsoft Account sign-in
- Can be disabled anytime under Settings > Apps > Optional features
- Disabling returns Notepad to its original, classic experience
How to Use Copilot+ in Notepad
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Open Notepad
Make sure your device is running Windows 11 Dev Channel (build 27808 or later).
Step 2: Highlight Your Text
Select any content you want to modify, rewrite, or analyze.
Step 3: Launch Copilot+
Use either:
- The sparkle icon in the toolbar
- Keyboard shortcut Alt + Space
Step 4: Choose Your Action
You can ask Notepad to:
- Rewrite text in a new tone
- Summarize or condense notes
- Explain technical content in simple language
- Format raw text (e.g., Markdown tables)
- Provide grammar and clarity improvements
Step 5: Insert or Copy the Result
Accept the modification directly into your document or copy it for further use.
Early Adoption and User Reactions
Positive Feedback
- Developers: Quickly interpret error logs.
- Students and educators: Generate instant study summaries.
- Writers: Improve tone and clarity effortlessly.
- Non-native English users: Enhance fluency without losing meaning.
Many users describe it as the first Windows AI feature that feels practical and non-intrusive.
Concerns and Criticism
- Some long-time Windows users fear feature bloat in a historically minimalist app.
- A lighthearted movement on social media is urging Microsoft to “keep Notepad pure.”
Availability and Release Timeline
- Now: Windows 11 Dev Channel (build 27808+)
- January 2026: Windows 11 Beta Channel
- Q1 2026: General availability for all supported Windows 11 devices
If you’re on a Copilot+ PC, the feature will appear automatically—just look for the new sparkles icon.
Conclusion
Copilot+ for Notepad represents a significant shift in how Microsoft approaches its legacy applications. By pairing the timeless simplicity of Notepad with advanced AI capabilities, Windows delivers a writing and productivity tool that feels modern without sacrificing its original purpose.
From rewriting paragraphs and analyzing logs to summarizing lecture notes and formatting text, Notepad’s new AI upgrade offers powerful assistance right where users already work.
For the first time in decades, Notepad isn’t just a text editor, it’s a smart writing partner.
