Microsoft is removing wordpad from Windows – Finally, After 30 years

Synopsis:

Microsoft is retiring WordPad after almost 30 years, to prioritize the development of more advanced text editing tools like Microsoft Word and Notepad.

Microsoft has recently declared that WordPad, which has been a staple of the Windows OS since 1995, will be retired. This decision marks the end of a nearly 30-year run for an application that has remained largely unchanged, especially when compared to its more sophisticated counterparts like Microsoft Word and the recently updated Notepad app.

This move to remove WordPad is part of Microsoft’s larger strategy to streamline its development focus on more advanced and feature-rich text editing solutions, like Microsoft Word and Notepad. For handling rich text documents such as .doc and .rtf files, Microsoft recommends using Microsoft Word. For simpler, plain text files like .txt, Windows Notepad is the suggested alternative. This recommendation comes in light of the recent enhancements to Notepad, which now includes features like autosave and tab restoration, indicating a stronger focus on Notepad in upcoming Windows versions.

Over the years, WordPad’s simplicity and free availability have made it a favored choice among many long-time Windows users. However, as Microsoft continues to evolve its suite of applications, the emphasis is clearly shifting towards more feature-filled and functional applications.

This announcement is in line with other recent changes in Microsoft’s software lineup, including the upgrade of Notepad and the phasing out of the Cortana app on Windows 11. These changes reflect a broader trend in the technology industry towards streamlining software offerings and focusing on applications that better meet the current demands and preferences of users.

While the discontinuation of WordPad may evoke nostalgia among some users, it underscores Microsoft’s commitment to adapting and evolving its software ecosystem. The company aims to better serve its users with modern, capable applications that align with the needs of today’s digital environment.