Don Ho, the creator of Notepad++, has labeled the new macOS version a “fake” that uses his trademark without permission. As reported by Macrumors, the developer claims the unauthorized release infringes on his rights and exploits the project’s reputation.
In a recent post, Ho stressed that the app released last week has no connection to the official project. He described the release as misleading and disrespectful to the original project and its users, noting it has confused even specialized media outlets.
“This is misleading, inappropriate and, frankly, disrespectful to both the project and its users,” Ho writes. “It has already led people, including the tech media, to believe in an official release. To be crystal clear: Notepad++ has never released a macOS version. Anyone claiming otherwise is simply riding on the Notepad++ name.”
Ho mentioned that author Andrey Letov reached out before the launch, but he did not respond in time. Letov has now pledged to rebrand the app and its website soon to ensure the project exists separately while honoring its origins.
Attribution of authors on the macOS version website
“In coordination with Don Ho, the creator of the original Notepad++, I will update the branding of the macOS version so that it exists separately, with respect for its origins. These changes – a new logo, a refined name and, likely, a new domain – will appear in version 1.0.6 in the coming days. Continuity for current users is a priority, so I will make the transition as smooth as possible.”
Notepad++ is a popular text and code editor – a tool originally built for Windows. While users long hoped for a Mac version, they can be reassured the port will remain available, though it will adopt a new identity to avoid further trademark issues.
