Revolutionizing Notepad: AI-Powered Rewrite Feature Explored

Microsoft Notepad, a staple on Windows systems since the disco era (yes, the 1980s), is back in the limelight! And not just for being an incredibly lightweight text editor, but for now being powered by AI. That’s right, Notepad has gained a significant upgrade—an AI-powered rewrite feature that lets users rephrase, edit tones, and transform text right within the app. Let’s explore what this means for users, how it shakes up traditional workflows, and—of course—how you can take this souped-up version of Notepad for a spin.

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Notepad: From Basic to Brilliant​

For decades, Notepad has been synonymous with simplicity. Developers and casual users alike appreciated its "no-frills" approach for jotting down notes, tweaking code, or writing plain text files. But Microsoft is now taking this unassuming app into cutting-edge territory by integrating GPT-based AI technology into it.
Before you imagine Skynet writing your grocery lists, let’s clarify: this new feature doesn’t just rewrite text—it transforms your notes, offering changes in tone, length, and even organization. Whether you want to condense verbose writing, add poetic flair, or simply make something clearer, this AI upgrade is here to help.

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The Rewrite Feature: A Detailed Breakdown​

So how does it work? Here's what the AI-powered rewrite tool brings to the table:

1. Rewrite:
   • This is the main course. The AI analyzes your text and proposes a rewritten version, aiming for enhanced clarity or style.
   []Make Shorter:
   
   • Feeling verbose? Notepad’s AI can trim the fat and make your content more concise, cutting out unnecessary words or redundancies.
   []Make Longer:
   • Need depth? The AI can expand bare-bones passages, fleshing them out intelligently.
   []Change Tone:
   
   • Customize how your content "sounds" through different tones:
     • Formal: Perfect for professional or academic use.
     • Casual: Great for quick emails or relaxed correspondence.
     • Poetic: Because why not channel your inner Shakespeare?
     • Humorous: Add lighthearted flair—it’s like your own comedy writer.
     • Inspirational: Motivate, empower, and uplift your readers. Go full-on TED Talk mode.
   []Change Format:
   • Want to tidy up messy text? The AI can reformat notes into neatly categorized paragraphs, bullet lists, or even academic styles. Perfect for reports or poetry on the fly.

Notepad is Evolving—but Why?​

Here's a thought experiment: Why slap AI into Notepad, an app famous for comparison to more complex word processors like Word? Short answer: accessibility and integration.
Features like these lower the threshold for accessing generative AI tools. Users don’t have to hunt for third-party apps or extensions—AI is right within your operating system. This move aligns with Microsoft’s larger goal of integrating AI into everyday productivity (Copilot, anyone?). Even within such simplicity, AI-first workflows are being showcased for the masses.

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How to Get Started with the AI-Powered Notepad​

Before typing out your next brilliant Shakespearean sonnet in AI-enhanced Notepad, there are a few prerequisites and steps to follow:

Prerequisites​

• Windows Insider Program:
  • Ensure you are running Canary or Beta channel builds of Windows 11. The current AI integration is experimental, and these builds are test grounds for cutting-edge features.
  []Notepad Version:
  
  • Make sure you are using Notepad version 11.2410.15.0 or higher. Verify this by checking for updates through the Microsoft Store.

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Steps to Use the Rewrite Feature​

1. Launch Notepad:
   • Open it from your Start menu or taskbar. It’s practically calling your name.
   [

1. ]Sign in with Your Microsoft Account:
   • Click the profile icon at the top right to link your Microsoft account. While you’re not technically chatting with Cortana, AI still needs an identity anchor to work seamlessly.
   []Get Writing:
   
   • Type or paste text into Notepad like you usually would.
   []Unleash AI:
   • Locate the "Rewrite" button in the top right of the app. Clicking this opens options for rephrasing or restructuring your content.
   []Choose & Review:
   
   • You'll get several variations to choose from. AI offers suggestions for different tones, formats, or lengths.
   []Select or Modify:
   • Highlight specific sections if you only want AI to rewrite part of your note. Right-click and choose Rewrite to refine that segment.
2. Replace and Save:
   • Once satisfied, hit Replace to apply changes.

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There’s a Catch: AI Rewrite Credits​

Here’s the twist—using AI features in Notepad isn’t limitless. As Microsoft tunes this feature within beta channels, usage is restricted with monthly credits:

• Standard accounts: Get 15 credits per month.
• Microsoft 365 subscribers: Enjoy a more generous limit of 60 credits per month.

Once credits are used up, there’s no rollover. This ensures fair usage among beta testers but also hints at monetization for such features post-beta.

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What’s Next?​

While Notepad’s AI smarts are currently focused on rewriting text, rumors are circulating about future possibilities. Imagine AI-assisted coding features: error detection, syntax suggestions, or even fully auto-generated scripts! Considering its path so far, Notepad might transform into a super-tool for both casual and power users alike.

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Is AI in Notepad Overkill?​

This question will surely divide PC enthusiasts. For decades, Notepad has been the Swiss army knife of bare-basic text tools. Adding advanced AI features might feel like giving a go-kart a jet engine—fast but slightly absurd. Yet, for those wanting versatile productivity without the overhead of Word or third-party tools, this innovation is pure gold.
Still, skeptics might argue: Do you really need AI to clean up draft texts or rephrase a grocery list file? Perhaps not. But there’s no denying it’s fun, futuristic, and incredibly cool to witness Microsoft experimenting with generative AI in apps so humble.

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In Summary: Play. Learn. Feedback.​

If you are beta-testing this feature, Microsoft is keenly listening via the Feedback Hub. Be vocal—what works, what doesn’t, and what you’d like next.
Whether or not AI rewrites in Notepad will revolutionize productivity is up for debate, but at the very least, it’s a fascinating tool to toy with. Who knew a 40-year-old app could become a window into the future of computing?
So, fire it up—and maybe let Notepad turn your boring notes into poetic masterpieces or powerful professional memos. It’s all about experimentation, and hey—those 15 free monthly credits aren’t going to use themselves. Give it a go!

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Source: XDA How to rewrite text with AI in Notepad in Windows 11

 

[kemiy]

What is the best electronic notepad to consider if we need it for reading and writing purpose. I want something that’s slim, perfect for reading and writing, large storage capacity, eye protection E-ink screen with HD resolution, and document scanning feature. Options like Remarkable 2, and Onyx Boox are good but I want something like this electronic notepad. Can someone please guide?

Thanks!

 

[ChatGPT]

Hi kemiy!
When looking for an electronic notepad that excels in both reading and writing while meeting your specific criteria, you've mentioned some excellent options like the reMarkable 2 and Onyx Boox. Here’s a breakdown of your requirements and additional recommendations that might suit your needs:

Features to Consider​

1. Slim Design: A lightweight and portable design is essential for easy transport and comfortable use.
2. E-Ink Screen: E-ink displays are great for reading as they reduce eye strain and mimic the appearance of paper.
3. HD Resolution: Clear, sharp text is important for both reading and writing.
4. Large Storage Capacity: Sufficient storage for your documents, notes, and e-books is crucial.
5. Document Scanning: The ability to digitize and store paper documents directly can enhance productivity.

Recommended Electronic Notepads​

1. reMarkable 2
   • Description: Offers an exceptional writing experience with its seamless feel. The E-ink screen is anti-glare and visually akin to paper. It's slim and highly portable, making it perfect for reading as well as taking notes.
   • Storage: Comes with decent storage options, though no expandable memory.
   • Document Scanning: Allows the import of PDF files for annotation and can sync documents to their cloud service.
2. Onyx Boox Note Air
   • Description: This model features an E-ink display, is very slim, and has Android capabilities which make it versatile.
   • Storage: Offers substantial internal storage and expandable storage options via microSD.
   • Document Scanning: You can also import various formats including PDF and ePub, and it's equipped with note-taking capabilities.
3. Sony Digital Paper (DPT-CP1)
   • Description: Focused on users who need a superior reading experience, this device uses E-ink technology and has excellent document management features.
   • Storage: It has a generous storage space for PDFs and other documents.
   • Scanning: It doesn't natively include a scanning function but allows for high-quality document uploads.
4. Kobo Elipsa
   • Description: Primarily an e-reader, but with note-taking capabilities and an E-ink screen.
   • Storage: Adequately sized for holding e-books and notes but lacks advanced features of dedicated notepads.
   • Document Scanning: Doesn't directly support document scanning but allows annotations on PDFs.
5. Geniatech Kloudnote Slim
   • Description: As you mentioned, this specific model appears to focus on being ultra-slim while providing efficient E-ink functionality and document storage.
   • Features: Check the detailed specifications to confirm it meets all your desired features regarding screen resolution, storage, etc.

Additional Considerations​

• Check Reviews and Comparisons: Look through user reviews and comparison videos to better understand usability and performance.
• Warranty and Support: Ensure the manufacturer offers comprehensive support and warranty in case of issues.

Conclusion​

While the devices you've mentioned all have desirable features, your specific choice may depend on prioritizing portability, storage capacity, or additional functionalities like document scanning.
Feel free to reach out if you need more tailored advice or have specific models in mind that you'd like to discuss further! Happy notetaking!