Windows Insiders on the Canary and Dev Channels can now enjoy lightweight text formatting in Notepad on Windows 1 The update supports Markdown-style input, allowing users to easily apply bold, italics, hyperlinks, lists, and headings with a new formatting toolbar—boosting productivity and flexibility. :

Notepad’s Fresh Look: Text Formatting Hits Windows Insiders
Windows Insiders, get ready! Notepad is no longer just plain text. Microsoft has started rolling out a cool update to Notepad for Windows 11 users in the Canary and Dev Channels.
What’s New in Notepad?
This update brings lightweight text formatting straight to Notepad. You can now add bold, italic, hyperlinks, simple lists, and headings without leaving the app. It supports Markdown-style input and files, perfect for those who love working with markup languages.
Using the new formatting toolbar, you can apply styles as you type or highlight text. Plus, switching between formatted Markdown and raw Markdown syntax is super easy via the view menu or a handy toggle button in the status bar.
Major Updates to Note
- Formatting toolbar for quick style changes
- Markdown support for flexible content structuring
- Option to clear all formatting and revert to plain text
- Ability to disable formatting completely in app settings
This means you can keep your workflow simple or spice it up with formatted text, all within the classic Notepad environment.
Why This Matters
Notepad has been a staple for quick notes and coding for decades. Now, it’s catching up with modern needs without losing its lightweight charm. The update helps developers, writers, and casual users organize content better without switching apps.
“We are introducing lightweight formatting in Notepad, providing additional flexibility in how you structure content across your files.” – Dave Grochocki, Principal Group Product Manager
“As always, we love getting feedback from the community and will be looking out for your thoughts and suggestions on this update!” – Dave Grochocki
How to Try It Out
If you’re part of the Windows Insider Program, update Notepad to version 12504.50.0 to start experimenting. Don’t forget to share your feedback via the Feedback Hub under Apps > Notepad. Your input helps shape future improvements.
Wrapping Up
This Notepad update is a subtle but powerful step forward. It blends simplicity with modern formatting needs, making it a handy tool for tech-savvy users. Keep an eye on further updates as Microsoft continues to refine this classic app.
From the Windows Blog