Microsoft has started the process of transforming Windows 11, as announced a few weeks ago. After months of issues due to poorly implemented updates and an AI saturation that was not requested, the tech giant has finally focused on what matters. As proof, it has begun removing Copilot integration from some system applications.
According to Neowin, the latest update to Notepad for Windows Insiders has completely removed references to Copilot. The user interface no longer features the AI assistant button; instead, a pen icon with the label ‘Writing Tools’ has been integrated. Pressing it reveals a menu with functions to rewrite, summarize, or change text extensions.
At first glance, Microsoft has decided to erase everything related to Copilot, but not AI. The options in the Writing Tools menu, such as rewriting, summarizing, lengthening or shortening texts, and changing their tone or format, are powered by artificial intelligence. These features debuted in early 2024, when the ChatGPT craze was at its peak and the tech company wanted to embed Copilot into every possible corner of Windows 11.
Unfortunately for Microsoft, the public did not respond as expected. Copilot never managed to threaten ChatGPT or Gemini, and Windows 11 users felt that the company was neglecting important aspects by forcing AI integration. This reached a breaking point in early 2026, when security updates caused failures that broke millions of computers worldwide.
Microsoft Removes Copilot from Apps, But Not AI
Microsoft announced a strategy to get Windows 11 back on track, with reliable updates and system performance improvements. Pavan Davuluri, head of Windows, acknowledged that Copilot’s integration was too aggressive and promised to reduce it in applications where it does not provide clear value.
Perhaps the most curious aspect of this strategy is that Microsoft is not abandoning AI features. The latest version of Notepad without the Copilot button retains these features, albeit under a different name. When accessing the app’s settings menu, we find that the ‘AI Features’ section is now called ‘Advanced Features’.
For now, this update is only available to Windows Insider users, although it will eventually reach the general public. In addition to Notepad, other applications that will lose the Copilot button include Snipping Tool, Photos, and Windows 11 Widgets.
