Introduction

Microsoft has announced that OneNote for Windows 10 will reach its end of support on October 14, 2025. This development is part of Microsoft's strategy to unify and modernize the OneNote experience across Windows platforms. Users are encouraged to transition to the updated OneNote app to continue receiving new features, security updates, and technical support.

Background

OneNote for Windows 10 is a Universal Windows Platform (UWP) app introduced alongside Windows 10. It offered a streamlined interface optimized for touch and pen input, catering to users who preferred a simplified note-taking experience. Concurrently, Microsoft maintained the OneNote desktop app, which provided a more feature-rich environment for traditional desktop users.

In 2018, Microsoft announced plans to make OneNote for Windows 10 the default experience for Office users. However, by 2019, the company reversed this decision, opting to develop both versions concurrently. This approach led to user confusion and fragmented feature sets across the two applications.

The Unified OneNote Experience

To address these challenges, Microsoft is consolidating its efforts into a single, unified OneNote app. This updated application will incorporate the most popular features from both OneNote for Windows 10 and the OneNote desktop app, offering a comprehensive and cohesive user experience.

Key enhancements in the unified OneNote app include:

  • Visual Refresh: A modernized interface aligning with Windows 11 aesthetics.
  • Advanced Inking Capabilities: Improved pen and ink features for a more natural writing experience.
  • Loop Components: Integration with Microsoft's Loop components for dynamic and collaborative content creation.
  • Voice Dictation and Transcription: Enhanced audio input capabilities to capture notes through speech.
  • AI-Powered Features: Introduction of AI tools like Copilot to assist with note organization and content generation.

Implications and Impact

The transition to the unified OneNote app carries several implications for users:

  • End of Support for OneNote for Windows 10: Post-October 2025, the app will no longer receive updates, security patches, or technical support. Users may encounter performance issues and potential security vulnerabilities if they continue using the unsupported version.
  • Migration Necessity: To maintain access to the latest features and ensure data security, users should migrate to the updated OneNote app. Microsoft has provided detailed migration guidance to facilitate this process.
  • Enhanced Security and Compliance: The new OneNote app supports Microsoft Information Protection (MIP) sensitivity labeling, crucial for securing sensitive data. Users relying on outdated versions risk losing access to labeled content.
  • Improved Performance and Collaboration: Starting June 2025, users of OneNote for Windows 10 may experience slower sync performance, impacting real-time collaboration and multi-device access. Transitioning to the new app ensures optimal performance and seamless collaboration.

Technical Details

Migration Process:
  1. Download the Updated OneNote App: Available through the Microsoft Store or as part of Microsoft 365 subscriptions.
  2. Sign In: Use your existing Microsoft account to access your notebooks.
  3. Verify Notebook Sync: Ensure all notebooks are fully synced in OneNote for Windows 10 before transitioning to prevent data loss.
  4. Uninstall OneNote for Windows 10: After confirming successful migration, uninstall the legacy app to avoid confusion.
Feature Parity:

While the unified OneNote app aims to incorporate the most loved features from OneNote for Windows 10, some functionalities may not be replicated. Microsoft is actively seeking user feedback to prioritize feature development and ensure a smooth transition.

Conclusion

The deprecation of OneNote for Windows 10 marks a significant step in Microsoft's commitment to providing a unified and modern note-taking experience. Users are encouraged to proactively transition to the updated OneNote app to benefit from enhanced features, improved security, and ongoing support. By embracing this change, individuals and organizations can ensure a seamless and productive note-taking experience aligned with the evolving Microsoft ecosystem.