WordPad, a basic text editor included with Windows for 28 years, will not be accessible on new Windows 11. Microsoft confirmed in September 2023 that WordPad would be eliminated, affecting users in the Windows Insider testing program.
Microsoft is beginning to eliminate WordPad from Windows.
Microsoft now views WordPad as outdated and has labeled it as a “legacy feature.” This implies that there will be no further updates to enhance or address security concerns. Furthermore, it will not be available for installation when setting up Windows from the beginning.
Microsoft clarified the reason for removing WordPad in a statement.
WordPad and People apps will no longer come pre-installed after performing a clean OS installation. In a future update, WordPad will be removed and will not be able to be reinstalled as it is a default Windows feature.
Microsoft recommends using Microsoft Word for more complex documents and Windows Notepad for basic text files, instead of WordPad.
Many individuals expressed disapproval of Microsoft’s choice to discontinue WordPad in September, noting that this is not the first time the company has attempted to phase out an application. Despite initial plans to retire Paint, its popularity led Microsoft to revamp the program with enhanced features. Perhaps a similar fate awaits WordPad in the future.
