Redesigned Native Apps are Available for More Unsers in Windows 11

Windows update is all about refreshed apps for Windows 11. Microsoft is rolling out a new Notepad app, Windows Media Player, and the Photos app’s new image editor experience to more users. The new Notepad is currently available to Beta Channel users, the Photos app and Media Player are now available for everyone. Windows 11 is all about design improvements and Microsoft has been trying to make its native apps match the new look and feel.

At the time of the Windows 11 launch, some apps felt out of places, such as Notepad and Groove Music. The company is now trying to update these apps with a new unified design so they look similar Microsoft is making the Notepad app available for users in the Beta Channel, which means it can now be installed on Windows 11 Build 22000. Notepad, which remains the go-to app for most users, is getting support for dark mode, redesigned menus, and a dedicated settings page.

Windows Notepad refresh retains the familiar design with a touch of WinUI and Fluent Design. Notepad uses rounded corners on the right-click context menus, top-level windows, menus, pop-up notifications, find a tool, and more. Microsoft has also enabled support for new icons and animations based on WinUI. There’s a new settings page that lets users can change the font and theme for the app. Users can modify the built-in settings to allow more file types to be accessible.

After this release, Notepad has become a Store-updateable application and it has its page on the Microsoft Store. Notepad is available to beta channel users only and it will begin rolling out to the general public soon. The company also redesigned the Photos app which is available for everyone and it includes support for a new cropping tool, aspect ratio options, and more. Users can customize the photos, make adjustments to lights, and use new mark-up options.