We knew it was coming, but the reality has arrived in the #CanaryChannel. A clean install will omit #WordPad as of build 26020 of #Windows11. At an undisclosed point, the application will be removed on upgrade. #Microsoft

WordPad waltzes off Windows 11 Insider build • The Register
https://www.theregister.com/2024/01/05/wordpad_off_windows_11/

Microsoft is introducing a "Canary Channel" for the Windows Insider program, for folks who want to test new features much earlier in the development process, before they make it to the Dev Channel (which will provide better stability). https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2023/03/06/whats-coming-for-the-windows-insider-program-in-2023/