Microsoft Replaces Copilot Branding With Writing Tools in Windows 11 Notepad

Microsoft has begun removing Copilot branding from Notepad in Windows 11, marking the first concrete step in a broader strategic shift to reduce the presence of the Copilot brand across the operating system. This change was introduced in a Notepad update released on April 9, 2026, for participants in the Windows Insider Program.

The update, found in Notepad version 11.2512.28.0 and Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26080 via the Dev Channel, replaces the Copilot icon and phrasing with a pen icon and a menu now labeled writing tools.

While the branding has changed, the underlying AI capabilities remain intact. The new writing tools appear as a dedicated panel within the application and continue to provide features such as text rewriting, style suggestions and grammar correction.

Integration and Settings Changes

The transition from a system-wide Copilot interface to application-specific features means these tools now operate as native Notepad elements with their own user interface. These features leverage the same AI models that previously powered Copilot’s text generation capabilities.

Microsoft has also modified the application’s settings to reflect this shift. References to AI and Copilot have been removed from the Settings area, and the toggle to enable or disable the AI-powered writing tools is now located under Advanced features.

Broad Strategy for Copilot Reduction

This update is part of a plan confirmed by Microsoft in January 2026 to streamline AI experiences across Windows 11. The company is focusing on reducing unnecessary Copilot entry points and removing superfluous branding from various in-box applications.

Beyond Notepad, Microsoft is removing Copilot buttons from several other system apps, including:

• Snipping Tool, where the Copilot button no longer appears when selecting a capture area.
• Photos.
• Widgets.

Additional applications expected to undergo similar rebranding or removal of Copilot hooks include File Explorer and Paint.

Technical Context and Availability

The move represents a repositioning of AI capabilities on Windows 11, shifting away from a centralized Copilot experience toward a more generic, application-specific presentation. This allows the AI tools to exist as integrated features rather than as a system-wide assistant.

Currently, the Notepad update is rolling out to Windows Insiders. Microsoft has not provided a specific timeline for when these branding changes will reach non-Insider users or when the remaining targeted applications will be updated.