Microsoft Renames Copilot in Notepad, AI Features Remain Microsoft has begun removing the Copilot branding from Notepad in Windows 11 while retaining the underlying artificial intelligence functionality. The change, which started rolling out to Windows Insiders and is now available to all users, replaces the Copilot button and menu with a new “Writing tools” option. According to multiple reports, the updated Notepad no longer displays the Copilot logo or terminology in its interface. Instead, users access AI-powered features such as rewriting, summarizing, adjusting tone and generating text from prompts through the “Writing tools” menu. These capabilities remain functionally identical to what was previously offered under the Copilot name. The rebranding extends to Notepad’s settings, where AI-related options have been moved from a dedicated Copilot section to the “Advanced features” area. Microsoft confirmed this shift is part of a broader strategy to reduce “unnecessary Copilot entry points” across Windows 11, focusing instead on integrating AI where it provides clear user value. Despite the name change, Microsoft emphasizes that AI capabilities in Notepad are not being removed. The company states it is being more selective about where and how Copilot appears, aiming to avoid overpromoting the brand while preserving useful AI-driven tools. This update reflects user feedback and internal evaluations indicating that while AI assistance in basic applications like Notepad is valued, the prominent Copilot branding had become intrusive for some users. By decoupling the functionality from the Copilot name, Microsoft seeks to maintain utility without compromising the user experience. The change applies to both personal and enterprise versions of Windows 11, with no indication that administrators can selectively disable the AI features through policy settings at this time. Users who prefer not to apply the writing tools can still disable them via the Advanced features menu in Notepad settings.
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