Microsoft has unveiled a new iteration of its Copilot app for Windows 11, branding it as a “native” application. However, a closer look reveals that this new app primarily serves as a window to the Copilot website, much like its predecessor.
App Features and Functionality
The latest update transitions the Copilot experience from a Progressive Web App (PWA) powered by Microsoft Edge to what Microsoft describes as a native application. Despite this claim, the core functionality remains unchanged; users will still access copilot.microsoft.com. The primary distinction lies in the app’s independence from the Edge PWA system, although it continues to utilize WebView2, the rendering engine that underpins Edge.
Microsoft elaborates on the update, stating, “With this update, the previous Copilot progressive web app (PWA) is replaced with a native version. After installing the Copilot app update, when you run Copilot, you will see it appear in your system tray.”
While the app does introduce a new “quick view” mode, accessible via the Alt+Spacebar keys, this feature merely presents the Copilot website in a more compact window. Additionally, a Copilot icon has been added to the System Tray, although the rationale behind this addition remains unclear.
- The only genuinely native components of the new app include a miscellaneous menu in the title bar and an about screen that links to a text file listing third-party notices.
- Despite the app’s preview status, it raises questions about Microsoft’s commitment to delivering a truly native experience for users.
(Image credit: Windows Central)
As the app rolls out in preview for Insiders across all channels, it remains to be seen whether Microsoft will enhance the Copilot experience to align with its “native” designation in future updates. For now, the initial offering leaves much to be desired in terms of innovation and functionality.
