Leaked images show revamped Notepad app that fits in on Windows 11
One of Microsoft's oldest apps may get a visual refresh for Windows 11.
What you need to know
- Leaked images show off what appears to be an updated Notepad app.
- The app has Fluent Design Windows 11 settings and a WinUI menu bar.
- The images were reportedly shared by a Microsoft engineer and then quickly deleted.
Microsoft's Notepad is a classic app that's loved by its enthusiasts. Soon, it could have a new look that fits right in on Windows 11. Screenshots briefly appeared that show what people claim to be an updated Notepad app. According to reports, the screenshots were shared by a Microsoft engineer and then quickly deleted. FireCubeStudios managed to save the screenshots before they were taken down.
As these are leaked images, they may not reflect what the Notepad app looks like in the future. If the photos are accurate, Notepad will have a settings section that follows Fluent Design and a WinUI menu bar.
Microsoft redesigned several of its apps to line up with Windows 11, including Paint and the Photos app. Generally, Microsoft's apps that have been refreshed have a new look that follows the design language of Windows 11 and some new features.
Notepad Windows 11 design leaked by Microsoft engineer then quickly deleted. We can see a new Fluent Design windows 11 settings for the app and also a WinUI menu bar#Windows11 #FluentDesign #CaughtIn4K pic.twitter.com/iV1FUIuoa5Notepad Windows 11 design leaked by Microsoft engineer then quickly deleted. We can see a new Fluent Design windows 11 settings for the app and also a WinUI menu bar#Windows11 #FluentDesign #CaughtIn4K pic.twitter.com/iV1FUIuoa5— FireCube (@FireCubeStudios) October 9, 2021October 9, 2021
The leaked screenshots show options to customize Notepad's theme and fonts.
Notepad is one of Microsoft's oldest apps. It's almost 30 years old and largely remains unchanged. Notepad entered the Microsoft Store in April 2020, allowing Microsoft to update it separately from its operating systems. We'll have to wait to see if these updates roll out to the Notepad app.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.