Copilot+ PCs Archives

Winsage

August 21, 2025

Copilot on Windows: Semantic Search and new home begin rolling out to Windows Insiders

Microsoft has rolled out an update for the Copilot app on Windows, introducing several new features. The update includes a semantic file search feature that allows users to find files using natural language queries, such as "find images of bridges at sunset" or "find my CV." This feature is available on Copilot+ PCs and ensures user privacy by allowing management of permissions. The update also introduces a new Copilot home experience that consolidates recent apps, files, and conversations for easy access. Users can receive guided assistance by clicking on recent applications and can upload documents or photos into the Copilot chat for summarization and discussion. Copilot references the standard Windows "Recent" folder to display recently accessed files, ensuring privacy by not scanning the entire system. The Vision feature allows users to receive real-time guidance based on screen content or attached files. The update is being gradually rolled out (version 1.25082.132.0 and higher) across all Insider Channels via the Microsoft Store, and users are encouraged to provide feedback within the app. The app works with specific text, image, and document formats and is optimized for select languages. Supported file types for upload include .png, .jpeg, .svg, .pdf, .docx, .xlsx, .csv, .json, and .txt.

Winsage

August 21, 2025

Copilot on Windows App Adds Semantic File Search and New Homepage for Insiders

Microsoft is testing a semantic search feature and a redesigned homepage within its Copilot app for Windows, available to Insiders on Copilot+ PCs. The semantic file search allows users to find documents and images using natural language prompts. The Copilot app includes a robust permission system for user control over what the chatbot can access. The updated homepage displays recent apps, files, and conversations for easier access to resources. The Windows Insider team confirmed that Copilot does not scan the entire system or upload files without user consent. Additionally, Microsoft has introduced the Windows 11 Canary build 27928, which moves more time and language settings from the Control Panel to the new Settings app.

Winsage

August 16, 2025

Windows 12 Rumors: Sorting Facts from Fiction

Windows 12 is generating excitement among users, with anticipated features including a redesigned interface with AI capabilities, accelerated startup times, enhanced cloud service integration, improved multitasking tools, and gaming upgrades. Industry experts speculate a potential launch in late 2025, specifically between September and December. The integration of Microsoft's Copilot is expected to enhance productivity through intelligent task optimization and personalized settings. Windows 12 may also include enhanced Snap Layouts, dynamic widgets, and floating taskbars. Cloud storage will play a significant role, providing seamless file access and faster app updates. Gaming improvements may feature DirectStorage 2.0 and AI-enhanced graphics. Users may need to upgrade their hardware to support these new features. While the release date and features remain unconfirmed by Microsoft, the updates are expected to build on Windows 11 rather than overhaul it completely.

Winsage

August 14, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27924 (Canary Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27924 has been released to the Canary Channel, with ISOs now available for download. New features include the rollout of Copilot+ PC experiences, which will gradually introduce improvements to Windows Search and Settings. Advanced settings have been redesigned, now allowing users to enable long paths, manage virtual workspaces, and view Git information in File Explorer. Changes include adjustments to the pointer indicator and a temporary change in the keyboard shortcut for it. The Windows MIDI Services have undergone a breaking change requiring updates for applications using the MIDI 2.0 SDK. Fixes have been made for issues related to upgrades, widgets, remote desktop, and webauth.dll crashes. Known issues include problems with Windows Hello PIN and Group Policy Editor. An update for the Snipping Tool introduces window mode screen recording. Insiders are reminded that Canary Channel builds are early development versions and may not align with future Windows releases.

Winsage

August 14, 2025

6 settings I turn off on every new Windows computer for a smoother, more efficient experience

Microsoft's Windows 11 often does not meet the diverse needs of its users due to its one-size-fits-all default settings. Here are six adjustments that can improve the user experience: 1. The Recall feature, available only on Copilot+ PCs, allows for system snapshots but poses security risks; opting out during setup is advisable. 2. The default display timeout is set to 3–5 minutes; adjusting it to 15 minutes for display and 20–30 minutes for sleep can enhance productivity. 3. Many applications launch automatically at startup, which can slow down boot times; disabling unnecessary start-up programs can improve performance. 4. Modifying or disabling search indexing can enhance system responsiveness for users who do not frequently use the search function. 5. Curating notification settings can reduce distractions from the numerous system notifications in Windows 11. 6. Uninstalling OneDrive can simplify file management by avoiding complications from syncing desktop shortcuts across devices.

Winsage

August 13, 2025

Latest Windows 11 update packs a great new feature – but I hope I never have to use it

Windows 11's August update introduces several enhancements, including the Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) tool (KB5063878) to help users recover from boot failures by diagnosing and resolving issues. The update also addresses stability problems for gamers, particularly for popular games like Fortnite, reducing crashes and interruptions. An AI agent is added to the Settings app for Copilot+ PCs, allowing natural language queries to simplify navigation. Additionally, the update officially introduces the Black Screen of Death as a modern version of the Blue Screen of Death. QMR will be enabled by default for Windows 11 Home users, and while some users may have privacy concerns about sharing diagnostic data, the benefits of resolving boot issues may outweigh these apprehensions.

Winsage

August 12, 2025

Windows 11 KB5063878 (24H2) boosts performance, direct download links (.msu)

Windows 11 KB5063878 is a mandatory update that introduces features such as Quick Machine Recovery, improved stability, and enhanced system performance. The update will automatically download and install, identified as the 2025-08 Cumulative Update for Windows 11 Version 24H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5063878), advancing systems to Windows 11 Build 26100.4946. It addresses stability issues reported after the May 2025 updates, particularly in gaming scenarios. Direct download links for offline installers (.msu) are available on the Microsoft Update Catalog. The update includes a new Settings UI with an AI-powered search bar, enhancements for handheld gaming, a redesigned Black Screen of Death (BSOD), and Quick Machine Recovery for unbootable systems. Users in Europe with Copilot+ PCs gain new AI features like Recall, which can be disabled through Privacy & Security settings. Fixes in this update include resolving Windows Firewall errors, issues with the Local Security Authority Subsystem Service (LSASS), visibility problems in File Explorer, and bugs affecting the Settings app and laptop lid options. Microsoft is unaware of any current issues with the update and will continue testing.

Winsage

August 11, 2025

Get ready for back to school with great deals on Windows 11 and Copilot+ PCs

As the academic year approaches, there is an increased demand for reliable and high-performance PCs that support students' academic needs and personal style. Windows 11, enhanced with Copilot, offers tools for productivity and organization. Microsoft is promoting back-to-school discounts on Surface devices, including savings on the Surface Pro 13-inch, Surface Laptop 13-inch, and Surface Pro 12-inch. Students can trade in their Windows 10 PCs for cash back and receive a complimentary trial of Microsoft 365 Personal. Various manufacturers, including Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung, are offering Windows 11 PCs designed for learning and creativity. Retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Costco, and Walmart are providing deals on laptops and tech accessories.

Winsage

August 10, 2025

Microsoft ‘rationalizes’ Windows Search settings in latest Windows 11 build

Microsoft has released the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27919 for users in the Canary channel, focusing on enhancements to Windows Search functionality. The update consolidates Windows Search settings into a single page under Settings > Privacy & security > Search, featuring a modern visual layout for easier navigation. This build primarily serves as a maintenance release, addressing various system issues, including a fix for File Explorer crashes and input method malfunctions. However, known issues persist, such as potential loss of Windows Hello PIN for users transitioning from other channels, display problems during upgrades, and remote desktop limitations. Investigations are also ongoing regarding non-functional widgets after the upgrade.

Winsage

August 9, 2025

3 apps that are saying ‘no’ to Microsoft’s invasive Recall tool, and how you can too

Microsoft's Recall tool is currently available only on Copilot+ PCs, and users can easily disable it. There are concerns that Recall may become an integral part of Windows, limiting user control. Signal has developed a workaround to prevent Recall from capturing data by enabling screen security, which uses Microsoft's DRM to keep its windows blank during screenshots. Brave has implemented a similar strategy by labeling every browser window as a private browsing session, preventing Recall access while allowing screenshots. AdGuard has updated its functionality to specifically target Recall, providing an additional layer of protection for users concerned about data privacy.