Microsoft continues to upgrade Notepad with powerful features on Windows 11, including AI integration, autosave, and character count. Check what’s new!

Microsoft Continues to Add More Features to Notepad on Windows

Microsoft has been quietly transforming the humble Notepad into a more capable and modern text editor. With recent updates rolled out across Windows 11, the software giant is adding features long requested by users, making Notepad a powerful tool once again. Whether you’re a casual user or a developer, these improvements are designed to enhance your productivity.

Let’s explore the latest features added to Notepad in 2024 and 2025, how they work, and why Microsoft is investing so much into this once-basic utility.

🔥 What’s New in Notepad on Windows 11: Latest Update May 2025

Microsoft’s latest Notepad updates are now available for Windows Insiders and are gradually rolling out to all users in the stable channel. Here are the highlights:

✅ New Features in Notepad 2025 (with Key Press Enhancements)

• Character Count in Status Bar:
• Now shows character count dynamically based on your selection or cursor position.
• Word Wrap & Count Combo:
• Character count continues to function even when Word Wrap is enabled—previously this was disabled.
• AI-Powered Rewrite Feature (Preview):
• Microsoft is testing a Copilot-powered “Rewrite” option, which suggests different ways to phrase selected text.
• Key Press Shortcut: Right-click on the selected text and choose Rewrite or press Ctrl + Shift + R.
• Tab Support Enhancements:
• Organize notes in multiple tabs, reducing window clutter.
• Key Press Shortcut: Press Ctrl + T to open a new tab.
• Autosave & Session Restore:
• Files are autosaved automatically. Notepad now restores unsaved content when you reopen the app.
• Key Press Shortcut: Save manually with Ctrl + S for ensured backup.
• Dark Mode Customization:
• Improved dark mode theme with automatic switching based on system settings.
• Find & Replace Updates:
• Enhanced search and replace with new syntax options and better preview highlights.
• Key Press Shortcut: Ctrl + H to access quickly.

📊 Notepad vs. Other Text Editors (2025 Comparison)

According to Windows Central, Microsoft aims to make Notepad smarter without turning it into a full-blown code editor.

🧠 Why Microsoft Is Updating Notepad in 2025

Notepad is one of the oldest apps on Windows, dating back to Windows 1.0 (1985). With Windows 11’s emphasis on user experience and productivity, Microsoft is revamping core apps to stay relevant in the AI era.

The inclusion of AI tools like Copilot even in basic apps like Notepad signifies Microsoft’s intent to democratize AI access across all user levels.

• “You can explore all Notepad features on the official Microsoft Notepad page.”

🧾 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the new AI feature in Notepad?

Microsoft has added a preview of an AI-powered “Rewrite” feature using Copilot that suggests alternate phrasings for selected text.

2. Is Autosave available in Notepad now?

Yes, Notepad now automatically saves your files and restores them even after a system reboot or crash.

3. How do I enable tabs in Notepad?

Tabbed support is enabled by default in the latest Windows 11 version. Press Ctrl + T to open a new tab.

4. Does Notepad support character count now?

Yes, a live character count appears in the status bar, including support while Word Wrap is on.

5. Is the update available for all Windows users?

Currently, most features are rolling out to Windows Insiders, but a full public release is expected in Q3 2025.

📣 Final Thoughts + Call to Action

With these consistent improvements, Notepad is evolving from a basic text tool to a smart, user-friendly editor that meets modern needs. Whether you’re editing a to-do list or a code snippet, Notepad’s new features provide a seamless experience on Windows 11.

💬 What’s your favorite new Notepad feature? Comment below and share your experience!

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