Microsoft has confirmed that the classic WordPad editor will be removed from Windows 11 with version 24H2. Windows 11 24H2 is coming later this year. After the removal, Windows 11 will no longer ship any inbox app for opening RTF files.
WordPad will be removed from all editions of Windows starting with Windows 11 version 24H2 and Windows Server 2025.
The following files will be deleted from the operating system along with the WordPad shortcut:
wordpad.exe
wordpadfilter.dll
write.exe
Microsoft insists on using Microsoft Word instead of WordPad for RTF. WordPad is now officially a "deprecated feature". Microsoft also said once that there will no supported way to get the app back.
How to restore the classic Wordpad?
If you are one of those who cannot imagine your computer life without WordPad, you can download a special package that restores the classic app back in Windows 11. After that, you'll be able to use it in all traditional scenarios and tasks.
The company already removes WordPad on build upgrade in Insider releases. Starting in build 26020, Windows 11 removes the app from clean installs. Starting in build 26040, Windows 11 removes WordPad on an upgrade.
WordPad, the well-known text editor, has been a staple in Windows operating systems since its introduction in Windows 95, serving as the primary free text editor for many years. Microsoft is now recommending using Microsoft Word for documents requiring rich text capabilities, such as .doc and .rtf files, and Notepad for simpler text documents like .txt files.
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What does wordpadfilter.dll does? I’ve checked your WordPad package and it’s not included . write.exe is not necessary because the package adds the write alias to run WordPad. Thank you ^^.
It is a good question. Maybe the package must include that file.
I suppose it adds extra format support. Say ODF.