Microsoft has unveiled an innovative feature called “Ask Copilot,” seamlessly integrated into the taskbar, which serves as a replacement for the traditional Windows Search. This optional enhancement is designed to streamline user productivity by providing quick access to information across various platforms, including files, emails, and meetings. Jeremy Chapman, Microsoft 365 Director, emphasizes this point in a recent video, stating, “Stay productive without changing how you work with new Microsoft 365 Copilot and AI experiences on any Windows 11 PC.”
With the introduction of Copilot and its accompanying agents, users can expect a more efficient workflow. The AI capabilities are embedded directly into the taskbar, allowing for a smoother transition between tasks without the need to switch applications or browsers. “Access Copilot and agents right from the taskbar; find answers across your files, email, and meetings, and turn ideas into polished content using voice or text,” Microsoft explains.
Microsoft says it’s adding AI to Windows 11’s taskbar, and here’s a closer look
The “Ask Copilot” feature is currently being tested within the taskbar search box, enabling users to locate files and settings with simple prompts. Unlike the conventional Windows Search, which often falls short in delivering relevant results, Ask Copilot leverages the same search index but operates with enhanced speed and efficiency. This new interface is designed to make searching on Windows a more intuitive experience.
For instance, a query like “When is my performance review due?” would typically yield no results in Windows Search. However, with Ask Copilot, the AI can access information from Microsoft Teams and Outlook, providing a comprehensive answer. Another example includes inquiries such as “how do I make my cursor look bigger?” which would direct users to the appropriate settings.
To facilitate these advanced functionalities, Microsoft has developed a new interface that incorporates Windows shell integration, allowing long-running agents to be monitored similarly to applications. “Now, this uses new Windows shell integration, so that long running agents can be viewed similar to apps,” Chapman elaborates. By simply typing the “@” symbol, users can summon various AI agents directly from the taskbar.
Among these agents is the Microsoft 365 Researcher, capable of conducting in-depth AI research straight from the taskbar. This agent can operate for extended periods, powered by ChatGPT’s Deep Research feature, while providing real-time status updates through taskbar indicators. “As agents run, there are status indicators directly on the taskbar, similar to when you download large files, where you can track progress and see once it’s complete,” Microsoft notes.
Copilot in File Explorer
In addition to the taskbar enhancements, Microsoft is also introducing “Ask Microsoft 365 Copilot” within File Explorer. This feature is designed to offer insights for shared files, providing summaries, context, and actionable next steps for documents. When a user selects a synced file and clicks the MS 365 icon, the app opens to deliver a concise overview of the selected document.
These features are set to roll out to users in the coming weeks, promising to enhance productivity and streamline workflows across Windows 11.
