Microsoft Brings Free On-Device AI to Windows 11 Notepad
Windows 11 Notepad adds on-device AI-Write, Rewrite, Summarize-so you can draft, polish, and condense without leaving the app. Free on Copilot+ PCs; Insider rollout first.
Windows 11 Notepad Adds Free On-Device AI: A Practical Win for Writers
Microsoft is bringing AI assistance to the classic Notepad app in Windows 11, and writers get it free on qualifying Copilot+ PCs. The update adds three functions-Write, Rewrite, and Summarize-accessible from the right-click menu or keyboard shortcuts. It keeps the simple Notepad experience while giving you fast drafting, cleanup, and condensing without switching tools.
What's New
Write generates text from a prompt, making quick work of outlines, blog drafts, and notes. Rewrite adjusts tone, length, and style, so you can turn rough fragments into polished copy or reframe an email for clarity. Summarize condenses long passages into short, skimmable takeaways for faster review.
Why It Matters for Writers
- Focus: Draft, revise, and condense directly in Notepad-no context switching.
- Privacy: On-device processing on Copilot+ PCs means sensitive drafts stay local.
- Speed: Instant tweaks to tone and structure reduce friction in your writing loop.
- Cost: No subscription required for local features on eligible hardware.
How to Use It
- Select text and right-click to pick Write, Rewrite, or Summarize. Or use the available shortcuts.
- For Write, type a clear prompt with intent and constraints (e.g., "200-word intro, confident tone, include one statistic placeholder").
- For Rewrite, specify tone (friendly, neutral, formal), target length, and audience.
- For Summarize, highlight the section you want condensed and request key points or a single-paragraph brief.
Local vs. Cloud Models
On Copilot+ PCs, Write, Rewrite, and Summarize run free and unlimited on your device. This supports offline work and keeps drafts private.
If you have Microsoft 365 or Copilot Pro, you can switch between the free local option and more advanced cloud models from the same menu. That gives you flexibility without changing your workflow.
Where It's Rolling Out
The update is available first to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev channels, with broader availability expected soon. Initial support is English only, with more languages planned. To join or check your channel status, see the Windows Insider Program from Microsoft.
Quick Wins for Your Writing Process
- Blog drafts: Use Write to generate an outline, then Rewrite to tighten paragraphs.
- Pitches and emails: Rewrite to adjust tone and hit word limits without losing clarity.
- Research digestion: Summarize interviews, transcripts, or long references into bullet points.
- Content repurposing: Turn one paragraph into short social posts via Rewrite length changes.
Prompt Patterns That Work
- Write: "Draft a 150-word introduction for [topic], audience: [role], tone: [tone], include [constraints]."
- Rewrite: "Make this concise and journalistic. Keep key data. Remove filler."
- Summarize: "Give me 5 bullet points with the main claim, evidence, and takeaway."
Related Windows 11 Updates That Help Writers
Paint adds project files and brush opacity controls-useful for quick thumbnails or simple cover art. Snipping Tool introduces Quick Markup, so you can capture and annotate screenshots without opening another app.
Who Benefits Most
- Freelancers who want a lightweight, distraction-free drafting loop with instant cleanup.
- Content teams handling sensitive client material that should stay offline.
- Non-technical writers who want AI assistance without extra subscriptions or new tools.
Next Steps
- Check if you're on a Copilot+ PC to use the free local features.
- Enroll in the Windows Insider Canary or Dev channel if you want early access.
- Standardize a few prompt templates so your Rewrite and Summarize results are consistent across projects.
For a deeper toolkit to pair with Notepad's new features, explore curated resources for copywriters and writing workflows:
By bringing AI into Notepad, Microsoft keeps the writing process simple: draft, refine, and summarize fast, right where you already work.
