Microsoft has removed the dedicated Copilot button from the Notepad toolbar in its latest Windows Insider build. The move replaces the high-profile AI icon with a more discreet 'Writing Tools' option marked by a pen icon.
While the Copilot branding has vanished from the interface, the underlying artificial intelligence features remain active. Users can still access AI-driven capabilities, though they now reside under the new menu. Microsoft also allows users to switch these tools off entirely.
A shift in branding strategy
The change follows a previous commitment from Windows lead Pavan Davulently to reduce AI visibility in core applications. "We are reducing unnecessary Copilot entry points, starting with apps like Snipping Tool, Photos, Widgets, and Notepad," Davuluri stated in March.
Industry analysts suggest the removal reflects the growing backlash against Microsoft's aggressive integration of AI across its software suite. The removal of the button appears to be a cosmetic fix rather than a removal of the technology itself.
Other Microsoft applications that feature Copilot integrations may undergo similar rebranding. This follows criticism from competitors like Mozilla, which characterized Microsoft's Copilot strategy as "user abuse."
Notepad has undergone significant changes recently, evolving from a basic text editor into a more feature-rich application. The addition of formatting options and new tools has moved the app closer to the functionality of the now-deprecated WordPad.
Despite the removal of the Copilot icon, the toolbar remains more cluttered than the original, minimalist version of the editor. The software continues to incorporate advanced features that some users argue deviate from the app's original purpose.
