Windows: Notepad gets tables and streaming AI

Microsoft is rolling out a comprehensive update for its Notepad editor to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev channels. Version 11.2510.6.0 introduces two key innovations: native support for tables and streaming results for the integrated AI functions Write, Rewrite, and Summarize.

The table function expands on Notepad's existing formatting options. Users can insert tables either via a new button in the formatting toolbar or create them directly using Markdown syntax. After insertion, rows and columns can be added or removed using a context menu or a dedicated table menu in the toolbar.

For its AI features, Microsoft is employing a streaming technique that displays results word by word as they are generated, rather than waiting for the entire output. This reduces perceived waiting time and allows users to interact with partial results. However, there is a limitation with the Rewrite function: streaming currently only works for results generated locally on Copilot+ PCs. To use all three AI functions – Write, Rewrite, and Summarize – a Microsoft account login is mandatory.

Notepad is thus increasingly transforming from a minimalist text editor into a formatting-capable tool. In recent years, Microsoft has already added features such as spell check, tabs, and AI integration. This development is being controversially discussed in the community: while some users welcome the additional options, others see it as a classic case of feature bloat and prefer the editor's original simplicity.

Markdown Support in Detail

The table implementation is based on Markdown syntax, although Microsoft has not provided detailed information on the specific implementation. Typically, Markdown tables use pipe characters (|) as column separators and hyphens (-) for header separation. It remains unclear whether Notepad adheres to the CommonMark standard or implements its own extensions. The question of compatibility is also open: how will tables created in Notepad behave when the files are opened in other Markdown editors?

At least, the combination of manual toolbar operation and direct Markdown input suggests a hybrid approach intended to appeal to both technically savvy users and beginners. When editing via the context menu, Notepad will likely automatically adjust the Markdown syntax in the background.

Data Privacy of AI Features

The streaming function for AI features distinguishes between cloud and local processing. Since only Copilot+ PCs with their Neural Processing Units (NPUs) can execute at least the Rewrite function locally, it follows that other features and requests from regular PCs must be sent to Microsoft's cloud services. Details on this are not provided from the announcement. At least in corporate use, the streaming function therefore raises data privacy concerns.

The update is exclusively available to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev channels. Microsoft has not provided a date for its rollout to all Windows 11 users. Developers are explicitly asking testers for feedback via the Feedback Hub, which can be opened using the key combination Windows key + F. Users should submit their experiences in the category “Apps > Notepad”.

Users who prefer the classic Notepad functions without new features can disable the new features in the editor's settings. Those who want to make manual adjustments can also back up older Notepad versions and restore them if necessary – a workaround that Microsoft does not officially support.

(fo)