‘What’s next?’ people yell as Microsoft reveals beloved app will disappear soon – but fans argue ‘it should stay’
WINDOWS users are fuming after Microsoft delivered a crushing update on the future of a long-running app.
The PC giant had already revealed that the app’s days are numbered but we now have a clearer idea when it’ll disappear – and it’s sooner than some may expect.
The app in question is WordPad which has existed on Windows since way back in 1995.
But after almost 30 years, Microsoft has decided to axe it.
I don’t care if there’s no use for it, it should stay
WordPad user
While some may have forgotten the software even exists, fans who still use it have not taken the development well.
“Honestly pi***s me off,” one user wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“I don’t care if there’s no use for it, it should stay.”
Another added: “what’s next ? remove ms paint?”
A third wrote: “@Microsoft what the f*** is wrong with you.”
And a fourth person commented: “Yeah thats what we needed microsoft. removing useful apps and adding AI. totally what we asked for.”
In an update posted on its website, Microsoft said: “WordPad will be removed from all editions of Windows starting in Windows 11, version 24H2 and Windows Server 2025.”
Version 24H2 of Windows 11 is expected to land at the end of the year, so that gives us an indication of when WordPad will disappear.
You won’t be able to sneakily re-install the app once it’s removed either.
The firm recommends people use Microsoft Word or Notepad instead for any .rtf files they would normally turn to WordPad for.
WordPad has been largely neglected over the years while sibling Notepad has received some new features in recent times with things like spell check.
How to keep using WordPad after it dies
One potential work around is simply not taking up the next Windows 11 update when it arrives at the end of the year.
The current version – known as 23H2 – is supported until November 2025.
But you’ll be missing out on any new features Microsoft has in the pipeline.
And after November 2025 you’ll need to upgrade to keep your machine safe from hackers.