Microsoft Phases Out Adobe Type 1 Font Support in Windows 11

In a significant move impacting users who have relied on Adobe Type 1 fonts, Microsoft has officially announced that Windows 11 will discontinue support for these legacy PostScript fonts. This decision comes almost eighteen months after Adobe itself marked the retirement of the PostScript Type 1 font in January 2023. The announcement indicates a shift towards modern font technologies, and it may compel users to adapt to newer standards.

Understanding the Adobe Type 1 Fonts in Context​

A Brief History of PostScript Fonts​

PostScript fonts have been around since the 1980s, introduced by Adobe Systems as a way to render high-quality typefaces in both print and digital formats. They became widely adopted in the printing industry for their superior clarity and sharpness. Over the years, however, as design and technology have progressed, the use of PostScript fonts has declined in favor of more versatile and comprehensive font formats, particularly OpenType, which support a broader range of characters and styles. Adobe began the transition to OpenType fonts, which are compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems, and this pivot has made Adobe Type 1 fonts increasingly obsolete. The technology shift reflects a broader trend in digital typography and design, emphasizing flexibility and compatibility across platforms.

Why Microsoft is Deprecating Type 1 Fonts​

Microsoft's action to deprive support for Adobe Type 1 fonts aligns with Adobe's own withdrawal of support in all its major software products, including updated versions of Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Adobe announced the discontinuation of support for PostScript Type 1 fonts in versions like:

• Photoshop 23.0
• Illustrator 27.3
• InDesign 18.2
• Digital Video and Audio 23.2 This synergy between the software giants underlines the inevitability of change in design standards, emphasizing the importance of backward compatibility for businesses and individual users while pushing them towards newer, supported technologies.

  What Users Need to Do About Adobe Type 1 Fonts​

  Given this change, Microsoft is encouraging users to shift to different font types rather than relying on deprecated ones. Removing these fonts from your system is possible, but users may find the process cumbersome. Here are the suggested steps:
  1. Using the Fonts Settings Page: Users can access the Fonts settings through the Control Panel or directly in Windows Settings. However, identifying deprecated fonts can be challenging because the settings page does not allow users to see the font type without clicking on each font individually.
  2. Using File Explorer for Better Management: A more efficient method involves using File Explorer. Navigate to C:\Windows\Fonts, right-click on any column heading, and select "Font Type". This will allow you to quickly identify and remove deprecated font types from your system.
  3. Redirecting from Control Panel: Microsoft is also moving towards removing legacy font management features. Instead, the Control Panel's Fonts page will be redirected to the Settings app.

     Implications of the Deprecation​

     The removal of Adobe Type 1 font support is part of a larger trend in Windows 11's ongoing updates. As Microsoft pushes towards a more streamlined user experience, several legacy features and applications are being phased out. Notably, this year has seen the deprecation of:
  []NTLM []Direct Access []Several widely-used legacy applications like Steps Recorder and Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool. Most notably, Windows 11 is set to permanently remove WordPad, a staple for quick text-editing tasks. While WordPad remains available through workarounds, its phasing out highlights Microsoft's commitment to encouraging the use of mainstream applications like Notepad and Microsoft Word.

  The Bigger Picture: Aiming for Modernization​

  Microsoft's emphasis on discarding older technology in favor of modern, robust applications signals its ongoing effort to streamline user experience across its software ecosystem. The approach primarily focuses on enhancing security, functionality, and compatibility, aiming to align Windows with current industry standards.

  User Adaptation Strategy​

  For users who regularly rely on Adobe Type 1 fonts in design or document creation, there are a few strategies they can adopt to minimize impact: []Transition to OpenType Fonts: Users should start shifting to OpenType fonts, which offer more comprehensive character support and are compatible across various platforms.
• Utilize Modern Design Software: By leveraging the latest versions of design software, users can ensure they are using current standards with better support.

  Conclusion​

  As we prepare for the changes stemming from Microsoft’s decision to discontinue Adobe Type 1 font support, users must adapt to a rapidly evolving tech landscape. With Adobe's own transition away from these legacy fonts, it's clear that the future lies in more versatile and robust font technologies. To fully embrace these changes, Windows users should actively look to update their application suites and manage their font libraries sensibly. The road ahead may pose challenges, but by investing in the future of font technology, users will better protect their creations and enhance compatibility. For those navigating through these changes and seeking further knowledge about the evolution of font technologies, understanding the historical context of PostScript fonts can be beneficial. Source: Windows Latest