The Truth Behind Windows Notepad Image Support: Performance Tested
Notepad Prepares for Image Support in a Major Feature Expansion
Microsoft continues to expand Notepad after removing WordPad from the latest Windows 11 update. Recent reports show an image icon appearing in the Notepad toolbar for Windows Insiders.
Although the button does not work yet, sources say Microsoft plans to add image rendering support next. This feature would work alongside Markdown, which the app gained recently.
From Basic Text Editor to Lightweight Document Tool
Over the past few months, Notepad has changed rapidly. Microsoft added bold and italic text, headings, links, tables, and bullet lists. These features move Notepad far beyond its original role as a plain text editor.
Because WordPad is gone, Microsoft now positions Notepad as a simple but flexible replacement. The company aims to cover basic writing and formatting tasks in one lightweight app.
Performance and User Concerns
Microsoft says internal tests show Notepad remains fast and responsive. The team claims the added features do not hurt performance or system resources.
However, some long time users worry about losing Notepad’s core purpose. Many people rely on it to strip formatting by pasting text as plain characters. Image support could change that workflow.
Customization Keeps Notepad Simple When Needed
To address these concerns, Microsoft allows users to disable most advanced features. Inside the settings menu, users can turn off formatting, spell check, autocorrect, and Copilot integration.
Users can also choose whether Notepad opens a blank file or restores the last session. These options help preserve the classic Notepad experience for those who want it.
What This Means for Windows 11
Notepad’s evolution shows Microsoft’s effort to balance simplicity and usefulness. The app now targets both casual users and power users who want quick edits without launching heavier software.
As Windows 11 continues to mature, Notepad’s future depends on how well Microsoft maintains this balance. Some users want modern tools, while others want a clean text editor that never changes.
For now, Notepad sits between both worlds. The next update will show whether Microsoft can keep it there.
Origin: PCMag
