De-Enshittify Windows 11: Microsoft Copilot and AI ⭐

Note: This is an early peek at a chapter from my next book, De-Enshittify Windows 11. This book will be available for purchase soon. –Paul

Windows 11 emerged amidst a wave of enshittification, a term that captures the degradation of user experience through relentless updates and feature changes. The introduction of Copilot and Microsoft’s broader AI initiatives have only intensified these challenges. Users now grapple with distinguishing beneficial AI features from those that add little value.

💩 The problems with Copilot and AI in Windows 11

Upon its announcement in mid-2021, Windows 11 appeared poised to rectify some of the more contentious aspects of Windows 10. Microsoft promised a shift from biannual feature updates to a more manageable annual schedule, complemented by monthly security updates. However, this commitment proved misleading. While the annual feature update was maintained, Microsoft simultaneously rebranded its approach to updates as “continuous innovation,” resulting in a monthly influx of new features that compromised overall platform quality.

The situation escalated in early 2023 with the unveiling of Copilot, marking a significant pivot in Microsoft’s strategy. The integration of Copilot into Windows 11 was intended to align the operating system with the company’s ambitious AI roadmap. However, enterprise customers, who represent a substantial portion of the Windows user base, were afforded the flexibility to delay or bypass feature updates. This presented a dilemma for Microsoft, as the urgency to embed Copilot across its ecosystem clashed with the slower adoption rates of enterprise users.

In an unprecedented move, Microsoft opted to release the majority of the features associated with Windows 11 version 23H2 ahead of schedule, delivering them through a routine monthly security update. This decision, while expedient for Microsoft, exemplified a disregard for the needs of its enterprise clientele, further entrenching the enshittification narrative.

As this strategy unfolded, two notable trends emerged. First, the quality of monthly updates deteriorated as Microsoft rushed to integrate AI features. Initially marketed as “Moments,” these updates quickly became synonymous with frustration due to their frequency and lack of quality. Second, Microsoft cleverly circumvented enterprise concerns about delayed updates by ensuring that all supported versions of Windows 11 received the same new features, regardless of the version in use. Thus, enterprises could remain on older versions while still receiving the latest features, creating a façade of compliance with user requests.

Mid-2024 saw the introduction of the Copilot+ PC initiative, which promised exclusive AI features tied to specific hardware capabilities. This move aimed to stimulate PC sales in a post-pandemic market but inadvertently created a divide in feature availability across different tiers of Windows 11. The introduction of the Recall feature, designed to enhance user experience, sparked significant backlash over perceived privacy concerns, leading to a delay in its rollout.

Despite the uproar, the Recall controversy ultimately prompted Microsoft to adopt a more user-centric approach. Originally set to be enabled by default, Recall was shifted to an opt-in feature, reflecting a growing awareness of customer sentiment regarding AI functionalities.

💛 Automate the removal of the AI features in Windows 11?

While a comprehensive utility for managing AI features in Windows 11 remains elusive, there are partial solutions available. Win11Debloat stands out as a tool capable of assisting users in bulk removal of certain AI functionalities. For those looking to streamline their experience, it offers a pathway to declutter the operating system.

➡️ Learn more: Win11Debloat is central to the clean installation process discussed in De-Enshittify an Existing Install of Windows 11.

To utilize Win11Debloat for the removal of specific AI features, users can follow these steps:

1. Visit the Win11Debloat homepage on GitHub.
2. Open a Terminal window with administrator privileges and enter the following command:

& ([scriptblock]::Create((irm “https://debloat.raphi.re/”)))

3. Select “Custom Setup” when prompted.

Within the app, users can choose to uninstall various AI applications, including:

• Copilot: Uninstallable through the standard method.
• Microsoft 365 Copilot: Also removable via traditional uninstall procedures.
• Recall: While it can be disabled, full removal requires navigating through the Windows Features app.
• Click to Do: Disabling is possible through the Privacy & security settings.
• AI features in Microsoft Edge: Removal is tedious but achievable through Edge settings.
• AI features in Photos and Paint: While some features are useful, complete removal isn’t possible without third-party tools.
• AI actions in File Explorer: Individual actions can be disabled through the Settings app.

As users navigate the complexities of Windows 11’s AI features, a blend of patience and resourcefulness will be essential in crafting a personalized experience that aligns with their needs.