Microsoft “Improved” Notepad. I Un-Improved It.

Summary

In this engaging video, Dave walks viewers through the process of using AI (GPT-powered CodeX) to recreate a retro-style version of Windows XP Notepad, called 'RetroPad'. He breaks down the development steps, including designing the user interface, implementing essential functionality, and solving issues like compile errors. Dave also showcases RetroPad's features, such as WordWrap, Find/Replace, and font support, while humorously interacting with the AI. The project highlights how AI can simplify software development tasks, making it easy for anyone to create a simple app. Dave wraps up by encouraging viewers to try the project themselves.

Takeaways

• 😀 Dave is frustrated with modern Notepad features and wants a simple, minimalist version, similar to Windows XP Notepad.
• 😀 He aims to use AI (GPT-X51 Max) to automate the process of building a retro-style Notepad clone called 'Retropad' in C/C++.
• 😀 The Retropad application is designed to replicate the functionality of the original Windows XP Notepad, including features like file loading/saving and menu items.
• 😀 Dave specifies the need for the app to handle file encodings, word wrap, and basic file operations but excludes printing functionality.
• 😀 The AI, GPT-X51 Max, generates the Retropad source code iteratively, with Dave occasionally approving each step.
• 😀 The development process involves creating multiple files, including resource files, C/C++ source files, and the makefile needed to compile the application.
• 😀 Despite being a basic text editor, Retropad includes several extra features such as font selection, find/replace functionality, and status bar toggling.
• 😀 Dave demonstrates the use of drag-and-drop file opening and the functioning of basic menu commands like 'File New' and 'File Save'.
• 😀 The Retropad app is compiled into a standalone executable (Retropad.exe), and the source code is kept under 1,000 lines of code, as requested.
• 😀 Dave offers the Retropad source files on GitHub, encouraging viewers to compile the app themselves or use the provided binary.
• 😀 At the end of the video, Dave asks for feedback from viewers to know if this format and content were engaging enough to continue.

Q & A

What is Dave's main frustration with modern Notepad?

Dave is frustrated that modern Notepad has too many features, such as tabs and session persistence, which are not needed for simple note-taking. He prefers a minimalist approach, similar to the original Windows XP Notepad.

Why does Dave choose to use GPT (CodeX X51 Max) for building a new Notepad?

Dave wants to use GPT to solve the problem of modern Notepad's complexity by having the AI build a simple, functional Notepad application that mimics the original Windows XP version.

What is the purpose of Dave's RetroPad project?

The goal of the RetroPad project is to create a simplified, Windows XP-style Notepad application that functions with a clean interface, without the unnecessary features added to modern versions of Notepad.

What key features does Dave request for the RetroPad app?

Dave requests that RetroPad should include basic features such as file loading, saving, a functional menu, and a resizable main window, while excluding more advanced functionalities like printing.

How does GPT approach building the RetroPad app?

GPT first plans the app, creates necessary files, and iteratively works on the features, such as handling window messages, file operations, and the basic structure of the app. It also adjusts the code based on feedback from Dave during the process.

What problem does Dave encounter with GPT during the project?

Dave encounters the issue of GPT repeatedly asking for permission to allow actions, such as creating files and compiling code, which interrupts the process and requires manual approval each time.

What unique behavior does the RetroPad app support that Dave had forgotten about in Notepad?

Dave discovers that RetroPad supports the ability to change fonts and even has a font picker, a feature he had not realized existed in the original Notepad.

What does Dave think about RetroPad's success compared to his expectations?

Dave is pleasantly surprised by RetroPad's success, noting that it works like the old XP Notepad, with basic features like file handling, find functionality, and font changes, all functioning as expected.

Why does Dave decide not to implement the printing feature in RetroPad?

Dave intentionally excludes the printing functionality from RetroPad, as he does not need it for his purposes, focusing instead on creating a lightweight note-taking app similar to the original Notepad.

What challenge does Dave face when trying to compile RetroPad, and how does he solve it?

Dave faces issues with compiling RetroPad due to missing environment variables and a failure to locate the necessary compiler. He solves this by adjusting his environment settings and using the 'make' command to build the app successfully.