How to Restore the Previous PowerPoint Recording and Notes Display
Question details
The user wants to revert to the previous recording interface because a recent update made the speaker notes window smaller and difficult to read.
- Product
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Recording a slide presentation while trying to read speaker notes.
- Observed behavior
- The updated PowerPoint recording interface features a smaller, less convenient notes display that replaces the older, preferred presenter-style layout.
Verify your current Microsoft PowerPoint version and note your Microsoft 365 update channel before submitting feedback about the interface changes.
Access Notes in the New Interface and Submit Feedback
Since the interface redesign is an intentional update across Microsoft 365 channels, you cannot directly revert to the old layout. However, you can use the current Notes option and request changes via feedback.
Microsoft has intentionally updated the recording interface in recent Current, Semi-Annual, and Semi-Annual Preview channels. While rolling back the interface isn't natively supported with a simple toggle, you can still access your notes and let Microsoft know about the usability issues.
Launch your presentation in PowerPoint, navigate to the 'Record' tab on the ribbon, and click 'From Beginning' or 'From Current Slide'.
In the new recording window, locate the 'Notes' dropdown button at the top of the screen and click it to display your speaker notes.
Use the 'A-' and 'A+' icons located near the notes pane to increase the text size if the default font is too small to read comfortably.
Navigate to 'File' > 'Feedback' (or 'Help' > 'Feedback') in the main PowerPoint window. Explain that the new notes interface is difficult to use, mention the small font size, and provide screenshots comparing it to your previous version.
Try WPS Presentation for a Better Presenting Experience
If you are frustrated by constant UI changes and hard-to-read speaker notes in Microsoft PowerPoint, consider trying WPS Office. It provides a stable, user-friendly interface with an excellent Presenter View, ensuring your presentation process remains smooth and visually comfortable.
- 1. Download and Install: Get WPS Office for free from the official website and install it on your device.
- 2. Open Your Presentation: Open your existing .pptx files directly in WPS Presentation without losing any formatting or speaker notes.
- 3. Use Presenter View: Go to the Slide Show tab and select Presenter View to clearly read your notes on a dedicated screen while presenting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I completely disable the new PowerPoint recording interface?
No, the new recording interface is an intentional update rolled out across multiple Microsoft 365 channels. There is no built-in setting to toggle back to the old presenter-style recording layout.
How do I make the notes larger in the new PowerPoint recording view?
In the new recording interface, click on the Notes dropdown at the top. You will see 'A-' and 'A+' buttons in the notes pane which you can click to adjust the text size to a readable level.
Will rolling back my Office update restore the old recording screen?
Yes, using the Office Deployment Tool to revert to an older build of Microsoft Office can temporarily restore the previous interface. However, automatic updates will eventually reinstall the new layout, and running older versions can leave your system vulnerable to security risks.
Does WPS Office support PowerPoint speaker notes?
Yes, WPS Presentation fully supports PowerPoint speaker notes. You can view, edit, and read them clearly during your presentation using the built-in Presenter View feature.
