Microsoft recently announced significant changes to the Windows 11 operating system, and one of the notable updates is the removal of WordPad and Steps Recorder. This move aims to streamline and modernize the Windows experience. However, it is essential to note that these changes currently only apply to Windows Insiders on the Canary channel who perform clean installations of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26020.
Changes in Build 26020
With the introduction of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26020, Microsoft made the decision not to install the WordPad and People apps after performing a clean install of the OS. This means that users will no longer find them available by default. Furthermore, the company plans to remove WordPad entirely in a future flight, making it unavailable for reinstalling.
WordPad: A Deprecated Feature
WordPad, a basic word processing application that has been a part of Windows for many years, is now considered a deprecated Windows feature. While it was a useful tool for simple document creation and editing, Microsoft has decided to discontinue its development and remove it from future Windows releases. This signifies the company’s commitment to focusing on more advanced and modern productivity tools within the operating system.
Steps Recorder: Discontinuation and Alternative Options
Another feature facing discontinuation is the Steps Recorder app, also known as PSR.exe. Microsoft has shared its intention not to provide further updates to this app and plans to remove it in an upcoming version of Windows. To guide users towards alternative options, Windows 11 will display a new banner notification within the Steps Recorder app interface. This notification will suggest alternative tools, such as the Snipping Tool, Xbox Game Bar, or Microsoft Clipchamp, for capturing screenshots or recording actions.
Expansion of Removal and Discontinuation
While the removal of WordPad and the discontinuation of Steps Recorder currently apply to Windows Insiders on the Canary channel, Microsoft plans to expand these changes to more users in due course. Eventually, WordPad and Steps Recorder will be removed for all Windows 11 users. This streamlining effort aims to provide a more focused and efficient operating system experience.
Future of the People App
In addition to WordPad and Steps Recorder, Microsoft also shares details about the future of the People app. This app, designed for managing contacts and connecting with others, will also be discontinued. The release notes for Windows 11 outline Microsoft’s plan to provide additional information on the discontinuation of the People app. This decision further aligns with the company’s goal of simplifying and modernizing the Windows OS.
Encouraging Exploration of Alternatives
With the removal of WordPad, Steps Recorder, and the discontinuation of the People app, Microsoft encourages Windows 11 users to explore alternative options for their note-taking and screenshot needs. The operating system offers a range of built-in tools and features that can serve as suitable replacements. Users can leverage the Snipping Tool for capturing screenshots, utilize the Xbox Game Bar for recording actions during gaming, or try out Microsoft Clipchamp for more advanced video capture and editing capabilities.
Microsoft’s decision to remove WordPad, discontinue Steps Recorder, and phase out the People app in Windows 11 is part of a broader effort to streamline and modernize the operating system. These changes currently apply to Windows Insiders on the Canary channel but will eventually be rolled out to all users. As Microsoft encourages users to explore alternative options within Windows 11, it aims to provide a more efficient and focused experience for productivity, note-taking, and capturing actions on the system. With these changes, Microsoft continues to evolve and improve the Windows ecosystem, ensuring users have access to the most advanced and relevant tools.