Notepad++ Author Criticizes Fake macOS App, Citing Trademark Infringement
DonHo, the author of the popular Windows text and code editor Notepad++, recently announced that a so-called "Notepad++" app launched on macOS is not an official product, but a "fake" app that uses the Notepad++ trademark without authorization.
Ho emphasized in a statement that the macOS app is "neither authorized nor endorsed, nor affiliated with the official Notepad++ project in any way." He believes this behavior is "misleading, inappropriate, and deeply disrespectful to the project and its users."
Previously, an editor claiming to bring Notepad++ to macOS had garnered attention, with many users accustomed to using Notepad++ on Windows viewing it as the arrival of an "official Mac version." However, after Ho personally denied official involvement, the app was clearly defined as an unofficial port by a third-party developer based on open-source code.
After coordinating with Don Ho, the developer of this macOS version, Andrey Letov, also issued a statement on the official website, stating that he would rebrand the app and its related website to avoid confusion with the official Notepad++. Letov stated that he will introduce a new Logo for the macOS version, adjust the name, and likely enable a new domain. These updates are planned to be released with the upcoming 1.0.6 version, while also ensuring a "smooth transition" for existing users as much as possible.
Notepad++ has been a popular text and code editor on the Windows platform for over 20 years and is considered an essential tool by many developers. Many users have also long hoped that the official version will be brought to macOS. Currently, this unofficial port project will continue to be maintained in the short term, but will exist independently with a new name and brand image, rather than being a Mac client under the official Notepad++ name.
Ho reiterated in his statement: "It must be absolutely clear that Notepad++ has never released any macOS version." He emphasized that if users see an app with the Notepad++ name on the Mac platform, they should recognize that it is not an official product, in order to avoid misunderstandings regarding functionality, security, and subsequent support.