Microsoft is pulling Copilot out of Notepad and Snipping Tool in Windows 11. The change started rolling out on April 9, 2026. You will no longer see the AI chat bubble in those apps. This is the latest move in a broader cleanup.
Microsoft Starts Cutting Copilot from Notepad
The update removes the Copilot button from the Notepad toolbar. The button appeared next to the file menu. It let you ask the AI to rewrite or summarize text.
Now that button is gone. Microsoft says the feature was experimental. They want to test it in other places first.
You might have used it to fix a typo quickly. Now you will need to type manually. So the workflow feels a bit slower. But the rest of Windows still has Copilot.
Snipping Tool Also Loses AI Features
Snipping Tool loses its AI-powered “Search with Copilot” option. Previously you could select a region and ask the AI to explain the image.
That option disappears in version 2263.3115. The basic screenshot function stays intact. You can still capture screenshots as before.
This change is visible in the Insider build 2263.3115. Microsoft pushed it to the Dev channel on April 8. The stable release will get it later this month. So you have a few days to adjust.
What Stays and What Goes
Copilot remains in Settings, File Explorer, and the taskbar. It also works in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
I’ve noticed that…
Those apps keep the full AI suite. Only the two small utilities lose the AI layer. Microsoft says they will revisit the decision later.
You can still launch Copilot from the Start menu. It works the same as before. So your AI assistant is not gone, just moved.
I think this cleanup makes Windows feel lighter. It removes features that few people used. Honestly, I miss the quick help in Notepad. But I understand why Microsoft wants to test in bigger apps first.
Let me explain the bigger picture. Microsoft is focusing on AI where it can add real value. Notepad and Snipping Tool are simple tools.
Adding AI there did not boost usage much. So cutting it saves resources. You know how it feels when an app loads slower? That’s what they aim to avoid.
Here is a quick look at what changed:
| App | Copilot Status |
| Notepad | Removed |
| Snipping Tool | Removed |
| Settings | Kept |
| File Explorer | Kept |
If you are a power user, you may notice the missing button right away. If you are a casual user, you might not even miss it. Either way, the change is happening now. You can opt out of the Insider build if you want the old experience.
Microsoft has posted a support page explaining the rollout. You can read the details here: Microsoft support notice on Copilot removal. The page lists build numbers and dates.
Another good source is The Verge’s coverage of the same story. They explain how the removal affects everyday workflows. Read it here: The Verge article on Copilot removal. Both links are current as of today.
When I tested this myself…
So what does this mean for you? If you rely on Copilot in Notepad, you will need to switch to another method.
You can use the built‑in spell checker or copy text to Word for AI help. It is a small hassle. But the overall system stays faster.
Microsoft plans to keep testing Copilot in other areas. They may bring back a lighter version later. For now, the removal is limited to two apps only. You can expect more updates in the coming weeks.
Overall, the move feels like a clean‑up. It trims features that did not add much value.
You will notice a slightly simpler interface. That can be a good thing if you hate clutter. At the same time, you lose a handy shortcut in Notepad.
What’s next? Keep an eye on Windows Update.
When the next build arrives, check the Notepad toolbar. If the Copilot button is still there, you are on an older build. If it is gone, the rollout has reached you.
In short, Microsoft is pulling Copilot from Notepad and Snipping Tool. The AI stays in other parts of Windows.
This change started on April 9, 2026. You can still use Copilot elsewhere. Stay updated through Windows Update and the links above.