AI-Powered Tool Archives

Winsage

March 11, 2025

Windows 11 will add a new way to talk to Microsoft Copilot — no Copilot key required

Microsoft is testing a new press to talk functionality for its Copilot feature on PCs, allowing users to engage with the AI tool using a keyboard shortcut (Alt + Spacebar for two seconds) to start a voice conversation and Esc to end it. The update is being rolled out via the Microsoft Store, requiring the app version to be at least 1.25024.100.0. Additionally, a revamped Copilot app for Windows 11 is being previewed, featuring a native app UI framework for better integration, faster launch times, and the option to start automatically upon boot. Some users have expressed surprise at the chosen keyboard shortcut, suggesting a preference for a dedicated Copilot key.

Winsage

November 23, 2024

You can now try Microsoft’s Recall AI feature on a Copilot Plus PC

Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel are receiving a preview of the Recall AI feature for Copilot Plus PCs, which includes functionalities like Recall and Click to Do. Recall captures snapshots of user activities, allowing for easy retrieval through natural language queries and a scrollable timeline. It is an optional feature requiring user consent, initially available only on Qualcomm-powered Copilot Plus PCs, with plans to support Intel and AMD systems later. Users can control their snapshots, including deleting them and excluding specific apps from recording, while sensitive information is automatically protected. Microsoft assures that no snapshots are sent to the cloud or used for AI training, emphasizing user privacy and security. The Click to Do feature allows users to perform actions with text and images from captured snapshots and will eventually enable broader interactions with screen content. Recall's introduction was delayed due to security concerns, but Microsoft has enhanced its security framework, allowing users to opt-in or uninstall the feature.

Winsage

November 7, 2024

Microsoft Notepad to get AI-powered rewriting tool on Windows 11

Microsoft is introducing AI-enhanced functionalities to its applications Notepad and Paint, which were originally launched in the 1980s. These updates are currently being tested by Windows 11 Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels. In Paint version 11.2410.28.0, new features include generative fill and generative erase, allowing users to manipulate images by replacing elements with AI-generated content. The generative fill feature enables edits and additions with simple text prompts while maintaining the existing art style. The generative erase tool helps remove unwanted objects from images while preserving the artwork's integrity. Additionally, a new background remover tool is being added to enhance user experience. Notepad is introducing the "Rewrite" feature, which allows users to automatically rephrase content, adjust tone, and modify length. This feature is available in preview for users in select countries, including the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Canada, Italy, and Germany, and requires a Microsoft account for access. Since 2018, Notepad has been updated with various features such as a built-in character counter, spell check, autocorrect, wrap-around find and replace, improved compatibility with Unix and Mac systems, tabbed browsing, text zoom, UTF-8 support, autosaving, and line number displays.

Winsage

September 4, 2024

It looks like you won’t be able to uninstall Recall, the controversial AI-assisted Windows 11 screen-capping feature, and I can’t say I’m too surprised

Microsoft has confirmed that its upcoming Windows Recall feature will not be uninstallable, despite earlier indications that users might have the option to disable it. The Recall feature allows users to retrieve past activities on their PCs by taking periodic screenshots of the user's desktop. It is exclusively available on Copilot+ PCs equipped with advanced neural processing units (NPUs). The feature will not be enabled by default, requiring users to opt in to use it. Security concerns have arisen after researchers reportedly bypassed Windows security protocols to access stored images, although Microsoft assures that these images will only be accessible locally to the Recall user. There are also indications of an "intelligent media search" feature in development, which could raise further security concerns. Users have experienced challenges in uninstalling other Microsoft features like Cortana, Microsoft Teams, and OneDrive, leading to uncertainty about the Recall feature's uninstallability.

Winsage

August 14, 2024

A former security architect demonstrates 15 different ways to break Copilot: “Microsoft is trying, but if we are honest here, we don’t know how to build secure AI applications”

Michael Bargury, a former security architect at Microsoft, identified vulnerabilities in Microsoft 365 Copilot that could be exploited by hackers to access sensitive user credentials during his presentation at the Black Hat USA 2024 conference. He highlighted the increasing difficulty for users to recognize phishing threats due to sophisticated tactics, particularly those enhanced by AI. Microsoft announced a strategic pause on new features for Copilot to focus on security improvements, which CEO Satya Nadella emphasized as the company's top priority. The company has faced scrutiny over security lapses and is integrating security deliverables into the compensation packages of its top executives to enhance accountability in protecting user data.

Winsage

June 21, 2024

Microsoft Redefines Copilot Experience on Windows Systems

Microsoft hosted the Microsoft 365 Copilot AI event to showcase the latest advancements in artificial intelligence technology. The event highlighted the innovative features of Microsoft 365 Copilot AI, demonstrating how it can streamline workflows, improve productivity, and enhance collaboration among team members. Attendees were impressed by the capabilities of the AI-powered tool and its intuitive interface.

Winsage

June 20, 2024

Microsoft is getting rid of the Copilot keyboard shortcut on Windows 11

Microsoft has updated the Copilot app on Windows 11 to act more like a traditional app, allowing users to resize, move, and snap the Copilot Window.

Winsage

May 29, 2024

Microsoft Copilot now works directly in my favorite messaging app

Microsoft has expanded Copilot, its AI-powered tool, by partnering with Telegram, allowing users to interact with Copilot directly through the Telegram app.

AppWizard

May 8, 2024

The Google app brings convenience for sharing Search results on Android

Google's Android app has introduced a new feature that allows users to easily share search results with a tap on a "share" button, eliminating the need to copy links.

AppWizard

May 7, 2024

YouTube brings AI-powered ‘Jump ahead’ feature to Premium users

YouTube has introduced an AI-powered tool called "Jump ahead" that allows Premium subscribers to skip to the most engaging parts of a video by double-tapping. The feature analyzes viewing patterns to guide users to relevant content, enhancing accessibility and engagement. "Jump ahead" is currently only available on the YouTube mobile app for English-language videos in the United States and is set to conclude its experimental phase on June 1.