Microsoft Copilot Archives

Winsage

March 19, 2026

AI Fatigue: Microsoft Pulls Back on Putting Microsoft Copilot Everywhere in Windows 11

Microsoft has decided to abandon plans to integrate Copilot more deeply into Windows 11 following user complaints. Features that would have introduced AI-driven notifications and enhancements are no longer being pursued. The company acknowledged user pain points and is shifting focus towards core stability fixes scheduled for 2026. Additionally, the launch of Windows Recall in 2024 faced privacy issues, leading to a revised version that includes data encryption and user authentication. Microsoft has also allowed administrators on Pro and Enterprise systems to uninstall the Copilot app under certain conditions, reflecting a response to user feedback and past update failures.

Winsage

March 18, 2026

Microsoft appears to be dumping native Copilot for Windows 11 in favour of web wrapper yet again

The latest update for Copilot has transformed it into a WebView-based application, marking it as a hybrid app rather than fully native. The new Copilot (version 146.0.3856.63) operates as a web application, evidenced by multiple sub-processes in the Task Manager that are characteristic of Microsoft Edge. The version number of Copilot aligns closely with that of Microsoft Edge. The revamped Copilot functions as a web app within a desktop shell but loads content from copilot.microsoft.com. Despite its web-based nature, it performs comparably to its native predecessor and launches more quickly. Microsoft had previously announced a "native" version of Copilot, which was misleading as it still relied on web components. In 2025, Microsoft began distributing a truly native Copilot app, free of web components, which started in March 2025. However, the Copilot has now reverted to a web-based format for users in the Windows Insider Program, with plans to extend this change to non-Insiders soon.

Winsage

March 5, 2026

Copilot App on Windows: Opening web links alongside your conversations begins rolling out to Windows Insiders

Microsoft has introduced significant enhancements to the Copilot App on Windows, allowing users to open links in a sidepane next to their ongoing conversation. With user consent, Copilot can access the context of opened tabs, enabling users to ask questions, summarize information, and receive assistance with tasks. Opened tabs will be saved alongside conversations, and there is an option to sync passwords and form data. The update improves speed and reliability and includes features like Podcasts and Study and Learn mode. The rollout of these updates for Copilot app version 146.0.3856.39 and higher is currently underway across all Insider Channels, with availability varying as it expands globally.

Winsage

March 5, 2026

Microsoft is Testing Web Integration in Copilot on Windows 11

Microsoft is rolling out a new feature for the Copilot app on Windows 11 that integrates web browsing directly within the app, allowing users to open links in a side pane next to their conversation. This update ensures that Microsoft Edge is the default browser for these interactions and requests permission to access content from any web tabs opened during a conversation. Tabs opened will be saved for future reference, and users can sync passwords and form data. The update also includes new features from Copilot.com, such as Podcasts and Study and Learn mode, while some features have been temporarily removed but will be reinstated before the general release. Performance and reliability improvements are also included in Copilot app version 146.0.3856.39.

Winsage

March 4, 2026

Here’s some incredible Windows 11 keyboard shortcuts that will save you so much time

Windows 11 includes numerous keyboard shortcuts to enhance productivity. Common shortcuts include: - Ctrl + A: Select everything - Ctrl + C: Copy selected item - Ctrl + X: Cut selected item - Ctrl + V: Paste copied or cut item - Ctrl + Z: Undo last action - Ctrl + Y: Redo last undone action - Ctrl + N: Open new File Explorer window - Alt + Tab: Switch between open apps - Alt + F4: Close active app - Shift + Delete: Permanently delete selected item - Windows Key + F1: Open Windows help search Function key shortcuts include: - F2: Rename selected item - F3: Search in File Explorer - F4: Highlight address bar in File Explorer - F5: Refresh active window - F6: Cycle through screen elements - F10: Activate menu bar - Alt + F8: Show password on login screen Windows key shortcuts include: - Windows key + A: Open Action Center - Windows key + C: Open Microsoft Copilot - Windows key + S: Open Search - Windows key + E: Open File Explorer - Windows key + F: Open Feedback Hub - Windows key + Ctrl + F: Search for PCs on network - Windows key + G: Open Game Bar - Windows key + H: Open Share menu - Windows key + I: Open Settings - Windows key + K: Open Connect menu - Windows key + L: Lock PC - Windows key + O: Lock screen orientation - Windows key + P: Open projection settings - Windows key + R: Open Run dialog - Windows key + U: Open Accessibility settings - Windows key + W: Open Windows Ink Workspace - Windows key + +: Zoom in with Magnifier - Windows key + -: Zoom out with Magnifier - Windows key + Esc: Close Magnifier Window management shortcuts include: - Windows key + M: Minimize all windows - Windows key + Shift + M: Restore minimized windows - Windows key + Home: Minimize all except active window - Windows key + Up arrow: Maximize active window - Windows key + Shift + Up arrow: Maximize vertically - Windows key + Down arrow: Minimize active window - Windows key + Left arrow: Snap window left - Windows key + Right arrow: Snap window right - Windows key + Alt + Up arrow: Snap window top - Windows key + Alt + Down arrow: Snap window bottom - Windows key + Shift + Left/Right arrow: Move window to another monitor Screenshot and emoji shortcuts include: - PrtScn: Copy screenshot to clipboard - Windows key + PrtScn: Save full-screen screenshot - Windows key + Shift + S: Open Snipping Tool - Windows key + . (period): Open emoji keyboard Exploring additional tips in Windows File Explorer can further optimize workflow.

Winsage

February 25, 2026

Now Available: De-Enshittify Windows 11

The book "De-Enshittify Windows 11" is available for purchase on Leanpub, priced at .99 and up. It is a work in progress, offering insights on improving the Windows 11 experience. Thurrott Premium members will receive a complimentary copy upon completion. Preliminary chapters can be accessed on Thurrott.com. The book includes chapters on topics such as installing Windows 11, enhancing privacy and security, and improving Microsoft applications. The current draft is under 100 pages, with the final version expected to be around 150 pages. It will be available in PDF and EPUB formats on Leanpub and will also be published on Amazon Kindle once finalized.

Winsage

February 24, 2026

How to Disable Copilot in Windows 11 — Uninstall, Hide, and Stop It from Coming Back

Microsoft has integrated its AI assistant, Copilot, into various parts of Windows 11, including the taskbar, Edge, and Notepad. Users have expressed a desire to remove Copilot, leading to the creation of a guide detailing methods to disable it. Copilot can be uninstalled through Settings, but additional steps are required to remove it from Edge, Notepad, and Windows Search. Users can also prevent Copilot from reinstalling after updates by adjusting registry settings. The Copilot app is categorized as a standalone application in Windows 11 24H2, making it easier to uninstall compared to previous versions. Methods to disable Copilot include: 1. Uninstalling the app via Settings. 2. Hiding the icon from the taskbar. 3. Using Group Policy Editor (limited to Pro, Enterprise, Education). 4. Removing Copilot for all users using PowerShell. 5. Adjusting settings in Edge and Notepad to disable Copilot features. 6. Editing the registry to remove Copilot from Windows Search and Paint. 7. Remapping the physical Copilot key on newer laptops. 8. Disabling silent reinstallation of Copilot through registry edits. Disabling Copilot will not affect core Windows functionality but will remove AI-specific features such as the chatbot and writing assistance.

Winsage

February 23, 2026

De-Enshittify Windows 11: Microsoft Copilot and AI ⭐

Windows 11 was introduced amid concerns of user experience degradation, termed "enshittification," due to frequent updates and feature changes. Microsoft initially promised to shift from biannual to annual feature updates, but instead adopted a "continuous innovation" model, leading to monthly updates that compromised quality. The introduction of Copilot in early 2023 marked a significant change in strategy, but enterprise customers could delay updates, creating a conflict for Microsoft. In an unusual move, Microsoft released many features of Windows 11 version 23H2 early through a monthly security update, disregarding enterprise needs. The quality of updates declined as AI features were rushed, and the updates, initially called "Moments," became frustrating for users. Microsoft ensured all supported Windows 11 versions received the same features, allowing enterprises to stay on older versions while accessing new features. The Copilot+ PC initiative in mid-2024 aimed to boost hardware sales but created disparities in feature availability. The Recall feature faced backlash over privacy concerns, leading Microsoft to shift it to an opt-in feature. Partial solutions for managing AI features, like Win11Debloat, allow users to remove certain functionalities, including Copilot and Microsoft 365 Copilot, while others require more complex removal processes.

Winsage

February 23, 2026

Microsoft Copilot is the best productivity app on Windows, says Microsoft

Microsoft has announced that its AI-driven tool, Copilot, is the top productivity application for Windows, according to its list titled "Best productivity apps in Windows for getting more done," which only includes Microsoft applications. Copilot is designed to streamline tasks from the desktop, offering features like summarizing emails, creating checklists, drafting messages, and organizing projects. Microsoft is promoting Copilot's integration across its product suite, but the ranking's exclusion of third-party applications has raised questions among users. An alternative list featuring a mix of Windows-based and third-party applications is available for those seeking a broader perspective on productivity tools.

Winsage

February 20, 2026

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1619 (Canary Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1619 has been released to the Canary Channel (KB 5077230). New features include: - Enhanced Cross-Device Resume allows users to continue activities from Android devices on PCs, including support for Vivo Browser and Microsoft Copilot app files. - Narrator customization now lets users control how on-screen elements are announced. - Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security now supports peripheral fingerprint sensors. - Voice Typing introduces a 'Wait time before acting' setting for improved command execution. - A streamlined setup flow for Voice Access has been implemented. - Language support for the Settings Agent has expanded to include German, Portuguese, Spanish, Korean, Japanese, Hindi, Italian, and Chinese (Simplified). - A refreshed SCOOBE screen for reviewing recommended settings has been introduced. - Paint version 11.2601.391.0 includes a freeform rotate feature for enhanced editing control. Features in the Canary Channel are rolled out gradually, and a desktop watermark will be displayed in pre-release builds. A clean install is required to exit the Canary Channel.