Microsoft’s innovative in-house AI models are designed to enhance user interaction with PCs through text and voice commands, offering guided support via Copilot. This feature allows the AI to take actions on behalf of users, creating an experience reminiscent of an agentic AI. However, not every Windows PC user is eager to embrace this transformation into an AI-driven environment. Some prefer to maintain control over when to engage with AI, while others harbor reservations about the technology itself.
In light of past experiences, Microsoft has had to recalibrate its approach to AI features. The company faced challenges when it delayed the launch of its Recall feature due to privacy concerns, as it involved capturing screenshots of users’ screens continuously. For those who remain skeptical about integrating Copilot into their Windows 11 experience, there are straightforward steps to disable it.
Turn your AI PC into a perfectly fine Windows PC
If you’re running Windows 11 and wish to remove the Microsoft Copilot experience, follow these simple instructions:
- Navigate to Settings > Personalization
- Scroll to the Taskbar section and select Other System Tray Icons
- Toggle off the Microsoft 365 Copilot App
This action will effectively hide Copilot from your taskbar. To take further steps, press the Win + R keys and type in ‘regedit’. Then, proceed with the following:
- Navigate to HKEYCURRENTUSERSoftwarePoliciesMicrosoftWindows
- Right-click on the Windows folder, select New > Key, and name the new key WindowsCopilot
- Right-click on the new key, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value
- Name the value TurnOffWindowsCopilot, then double-click the name of the value
- Set the Value Data to 1 and restart your computer
Additionally, users on social media platforms have shared extra tips. For instance, you can go to the Start Menu, right-click on both Copilot and Microsoft 365 Copilot, and uninstall them. Alternatively, consider using PowerToys to disable the Copilot button by remapping the key.
