Two Windows 11 apps are being ditched – one you might miss, and another you’ve probably forgotten about

Windows 11's most recent preview build 26020 (just released on the Canary channel) indicates that Microsoft is set to phase out two of the operating system’s core apps: WordPad and People. While People app functionality will be incorporated into Outlook for Windows, the new default mailbox app for Windows 11 devices starting from 2024, WordPad will be entirely eliminated. Notably, once WordPad has been removed, users can't reinstall it. The phase-out is expected to take effect once the changes seen in the preview build are incorporated into the release version of Windows 11. Notepad, another default app in Windows 11 will remain and will see continuous enhancements from Microsoft. This change will not affect Microsoft Word, the comprehensive word processor in the Microsoft 365 suite, which isn't a default app. It has also been noted that the latest build brings numerous positive transformations to the Voice Access feature thereby strengthening Windows 11's accessibility. The Narrator app will now feature natural voices for 10 new locales, an energy-saver feature icon will show when activated on plugged desktop PCs, and many more changes. For detailed updates, refer to Microsoft’s blog post about this build. There are speculations that security risks could be a reason for ditching WordPad, though WordPad users will have to find other lightweight word processors for Windows 11. There are many good alternatives available, which can be explored for a replacement.