New Delhi: Microsoft is reported to be expanding its Notepad’s feature set on Windows 11, rolling out Copilot-powered AI text streaming and enhanced Markdown formatting to a broader set of users. The features, which were earlier limited to Copilot+ PCs, are now stated to be reaching all compatible Windows 11 systems.
The update indicates to a broader shift in how Microsoft is positioning its default text editor, moving it beyond basic plain-text use while keeping the latest tools optional. AI-generated text in Notepad now appears in real-time as it is produced, instead of loading all at once.
This streaming-style output mirrors behaviour seen in conversational AI tools. To use AI features, users need to sign in with a Microsoft account. The report also suggested that the Copilot integration can be completely disabled from Notepad’s settings, removing AI features instantly without requiring an application restart.
The update is also stated to expand Notepad’s Markdown capabilities, along with the existing support for basic formatting such as bold text, italics, and tables. Microsoft is now testing additional Markdown syntax, including nested lists and strikethrough text.
Microsoft has stated that the formatting system is lightweight and does not affect performance. Users who prefer a traditional plain-text experience can turn off Markdown support entirely from the application’s settings. Windows latest reports suggested that Notepad now opens with the welcome screen, highlighting its newer formatting and AI features. This change reflects Microsoft’s broader effort to modernise the application, while still enabling users to revert to a simpler editing experience if they choose.
