Microsoft is adding an AI-powered 'Rewrite' feature to Notepad, using their GPT model to help users refine their writing. It can rephrase, adjust tone, and modify text length. Currently available to some Windows Insiders, it requires a Microsoft account and credits, with wider rollout expected later.

**For productivity software companies:** You'll need to innovate rapidly to keep pace with Microsoft's AI integration. This feature could boost user productivity, potentially reducing time spent on writing tasks by 20-30%. Consider how you can differentiate your offerings or partner with AI providers. **For Microsoft customers:** Expect increased efficiency in document creation and editing. You might see a 15-25% reduction in time spent on writing and editing tasks, allowing your teams to focus on higher-value activities. However, be prepared for potential learning curves and the need for clear usage guidelines. **For data privacy officers:** Review your company's data handling policies. Microsoft's AI features often require cloud processing, which could expose sensitive information. Implement strict controls on what content can be processed through these tools, especially in regulated industries.

Expect AI writing assistance to become a standard feature across productivity tools within 12-18 months. This shift will likely spark a new wave of competition in the productivity software market. Prepare for potential changes in job roles and skill requirements. Writing-heavy positions may evolve to focus more on ideation and strategic communication rather than wordsmithing. Anticipate increased scrutiny on AI-generated content. You may need to develop policies for disclosing AI assistance in official documents, especially in legal or compliance contexts. Look for opportunities to leverage similar AI technologies in other areas of your business, such as customer service chatbots or internal knowledge management systems. Early adopters could gain significant competitive advantages.