Copilot feature Archives

Winsage

January 9, 2026

Microsoft may integrate Copilot Chat directly into the File Explorer on Windows 11 next

A non-functional button has been discovered in the File Explorer app of the latest Windows 11 preview builds, which appears when users hover over a vacant area in the navigation bar. This button is speculated to be related to a feature called "Chat with Copilot," suggesting an interactive element for user experience. Users may soon be able to detach the Copilot interface from the File Explorer window, potentially as a sidebar or pop-up, allowing direct engagement with Copilot regarding selected documents and files.

Winsage

January 1, 2026

If ChatGPT Atlas browser lands on Windows 11, Microsoft Edge already looks ready to “intercept” it with Edge/Bing upsell

Microsoft has a history of discouraging users from downloading Chrome through its Edge browser and Bing search engine. This practice may extend to OpenAI’s upcoming ChatGPT Atlas, which is designed as an agentic browser. Currently, searches for Google Chrome on Bing prompt users to continue using Edge, highlighting its features. If users attempt to download Chrome directly, they receive reminders of Edge's advantages. Microsoft is reportedly preparing to intercept the launch of ChatGPT Atlas on Windows, as indicated by experimental flags found in Edge Canary. These flags suggest that Edge will attempt to redirect users from ChatGPT Atlas, similar to its approach with Chrome. ChatGPT Atlas can autonomously navigate the web based on user prompts, posing a potential challenge to Edge's popularity. Microsoft is likely concerned about losing users to ChatGPT Atlas, which offers more advanced agentic functionalities than Edge's Copilot feature.

Winsage

December 22, 2025

Insider build focuses on further AI integration in Windows 11

Microsoft has released a new preview version of Windows 11 for Windows Insider Program members, featuring builds 26220.7522 and 26220.7523 in the Dev and Beta channels. The update focuses on integrating artificial intelligence, particularly enhancing the Copilot feature for quicker access to contextual actions via the taskbar. New agents are being tested to assist with tasks within the Windows environment. Usability improvements include updates to the Narrator screen reader, touch keyboard, and voice typing functionalities, along with a new Discover Windows widget to help users find features. The release also includes various bug fixes related to the taskbar, Windows Search, Bluetooth connectivity, and File Explorer, while cautioning users about known issues. Insiders can temporarily switch between the Dev and Beta channels, but this option will end as higher build numbers are released.

Winsage

December 1, 2025

Microsoft is turning Windows 11’s Notepad into a AI toy with “streaming” where you watch AI text type itself

Microsoft is updating its Notepad application by enhancing the integration of AI through the Copilot feature, introducing a "streaming" capability that allows users to see text generated in real-time. This feature is currently being rolled out exclusively for Copilot+ PCs but will eventually extend to all regular PCs capable of running Windows 11. The AI integration in Notepad is designed to be an optional feature, though it is turned on by default, allowing users to access functions like Write, Rewrite, Customized Rewrite, and Summarize. Users can disable the AI functionality by going to Settings > Copilot, although the Copilot components will remain embedded within the application.

Winsage

December 1, 2025

Microsoft says AI agents are “risky”, but it’s moving ahead with the plan on Windows 11

Microsoft is integrating AI agents into Windows 11, despite acknowledging risks such as hallucinations, unpredictable behavior, and vulnerabilities to cyber threats like Cross Prompt Injection (XPIA). The company plans to transform every Windows 11 PC into an AI-powered machine by introducing features like Copilot Voice, Copilot Vision, and Copilot Actions. The Windows 11 taskbar will feature a new "Ask Copilot" interface for users to interact with AI agents. These agents will operate under separate accounts with limited permissions, controlled folder access, and tamper-evident logs, but still have access to personal folders like Documents and Downloads. The Agent Workspace is a key feature that allows AI agents to perform tasks in a controlled environment, separate from the user's session. Agents can interact with applications and execute multi-step tasks while being monitored. Microsoft employs the Model Context Protocol (MCP) to regulate agent interactions with applications, ensuring security and proper permissions. Despite concerns over privacy and security, Microsoft believes that integrating AI is essential for keeping Windows competitive. The company has faced backlash over previous features like Recall, which raised privacy issues, and must work to rebuild trust with users. The experimental AI features are currently optional, and Microsoft aims to demonstrate their value to encourage acceptance.

Winsage

November 19, 2025

Microsoft AI CEO pushes back against critics after recent Windows AI backlash — “the fact that people are unimpressed … is mindblowing to me”

Mustafa Suleyman, Microsoft's AI CEO, expressed surprise at the criticism of the Copilot feature and its integration into Windows, noting that many users find AI underwhelming despite its capabilities. He disabled replies to his post after receiving backlash, which coincided with a critical report from The Verge highlighting discrepancies between Copilot's advertised capabilities and its actual performance. Microsoft has introduced a new tagline for Windows, "Your canvas for AI," aiming to evolve the operating system with AI agents. However, there are significant perception issues, as many users believe the focus should be on resolving fundamental Windows platform issues rather than integrating AI features. Windows' president acknowledged the need for improvement, indicating that the company has "a lot of work to do" for power users and developers.

Winsage

November 17, 2025

Fortnite creator & Elon Musk urge Windows 11 to add vertical taskbar, remove MSA amid Copilot AI push

Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, criticized Microsoft for its Copilot feature and the removal of the option to reposition the taskbar, which many users miss from Windows 10. He also expressed disdain for Microsoft's requirement of Microsoft Accounts (MSA) for Windows 11, which has frustrated users who prefer local accounts. Elon Musk supported Sweeney's concerns about the Windows account requirement. Microsoft's Copilot ads have received overwhelmingly negative feedback from the public, with users expressing their discontent about intrusive pop-ups and errors in the AI's recommendations. Despite Microsoft citing a lack of demand, many users desire more customization options for the taskbar. Windows 11 mandates an internet connection and MSA during setup, with limited options for local accounts in the Pro version, leading to increased frustration among users.

Winsage

November 4, 2025

Microsoft introduces ‘Ask Copilot’ box to Windows 11’s taskbar – but only if you want AI there

Microsoft has introduced a feature called "Ask Copilot" in the latest preview release of Windows 11 (build 26220.7051) available in the Beta and Dev channels. This feature replaces the traditional search box on the taskbar with an AI-driven approach for searching applications, files, and settings. Users can opt to enable Ask Copilot through Settings, and it is turned off by default. The feature operates within existing Windows search capabilities without accessing personal files or data, using existing Windows APIs.

Winsage

November 1, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7051 (Dev & Beta Channels)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7051 (KB5067115) has been released to the Dev and Beta Channels. Insiders in the Dev Channel can switch to the Beta Channel while both channels receive the same 25H2-based updates. The update introduces the Ask Copilot feature in the taskbar, allowing users to interact with their PC using text or voice commands. The full screen experience (FSE) is now available on more Windows 11 handheld devices, designed for console-style navigation. A preview of shared audio is being rolled out, enabling two users to share audio from connected devices. The update also includes improvements to Prism, enhancing compatibility for 64-bit x86 applications. Various fixes have been implemented, including issues with USB devices, the Start menu, File Explorer, lock and login screens, and Settings. Known issues include problems with the Start menu and system tray for some users. Features are rolled out gradually, and feedback is encouraged through the Feedback Hub.

Winsage

October 31, 2025

KB5067115 Brings Ask Copilot in Windows 11 Taskbar with Instant AI Search

Microsoft is integrating its Copilot feature into Windows 11 as a central element, moving it from a sidebar experiment to a taskbar shortcut called "Ask Copilot" in Insider Preview Build 26220.7051. This feature allows users to search for applications, files, and settings or interact with Copilot through voice or text commands. The results adjust dynamically based on user input and suggestions from Copilot. Users can opt-in to use this feature, which complements the traditional Windows Search. To enable it, users can go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Ask Copilot, and there is an option for automatic launch upon sign-in. Ask Copilot uses existing Windows APIs and does not access personal files unless requested. This update also includes a Full Screen Experience for handheld devices and a Shared Audio Preview.