Microsoft, with its latest statement, announced a major change to the Windows software package, bringing an end to WordPad, a stalwart word processor that has been a part of the system since the inception of Windows 95. The tech behemoth has officially announced that WordPad is retiring from the software portfolio. It will no longer be receiving upgrades and will not be included in future Windows editions.
History and Evolution:
Initially positioned as an advanced alternative to Notepad, WordPad succeeded the earlier Microsoft Write, debuting in Windows 1 in 1985. Its introduction into Windows 95 marked the displacement of Write, but unlike its counterpart Notepad, WordPad has seen minimal updates in recent years. While Notepad underwent significant enhancements such as the introduction of dark mode and autosave functionalities, WordPad remained largely unchanged.
Microsoft's suggestion on Alternatives:
Since September 2023, Microsoft has flagged WordPad as a deprecated application and is steering users towards alternative options, primarily Microsoft Word for comprehensive text document editing, including .doc and .rtf files. For simpler plain text documents like .txt files, Windows Notepad has been suggested as a viable substitute. Despite WordPad's impending departure, Notepad remains secure as a basic note-taking application for the time being.
Reason Behind Withdrawal:
The decision to retire WordPad coincided with another significant revelation from Microsoft—an overhaul of Notepad. The lack of substantial updates for WordPad, particularly after its last significant overhaul during the Windows 7 era, has led to its diminishing relevance. Despite a minor redesign during the Windows 8 phase, WordPad remained stagnant, failing to receive substantial improvements, ultimately leading to its impending removal.
The End of an Era and Future Outlook:
Confirming speculations, Microsoft's roadmap excludes WordPad entirely from future releases, notably the anticipated Windows 12 expected to debut in 2024. This forthcoming iteration is poised to introduce cutting-edge AI-powered features, marking a leap in advancement for the Windows ecosystem.
Impact on Users and Microsoft's Vision:
The absence of WordPad in upcoming Windows versions signifies the departure of a fundamental, complimentary word processor bundled within the operating system. Users reliant on WordPad are urged to prepare for the transition and explore the suggested alternatives. Microsoft's decision underscores its commitment to revamping its software environment, prioritizing a more enriched end-user experience through modernization and innovation.
Reactions and Outlook:
The decision to retire WordPad has triggered reactions from users who historically relied on the application before gaining access to the Office suite. Notably, Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian lamented the loss of WordPad, acknowledging its role in his earlier endeavours.
At present, the stable version of Windows 11 still retains WordPad, with the changes undergoing testing in beta and developer channels, foreshadowing a significant shift in Windows' software landscape.
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