Microsoft has introduced a new feature in Windows 11, adding an “Ask Copilot” option to the context menu, as part of its recent update (1.25044.93.0). This enhancement allows users to right-click on a file and send it directly to Copilot, enabling them to ask questions about the content. The intention behind this feature is to streamline the process of extracting insights from larger files, potentially providing users with quick summaries and information.
However, the reception of this addition has not been entirely positive. Many users have expressed their dissatisfaction, indicating that the context menu is already crowded, and the inclusion of a feature they may not find useful is unwelcome. In response to this backlash, some users have discovered methods to remove the “Ask Copilot” option from their context menus. A simple adjustment in the system registry can achieve this. By opening Notepad and entering specific text, users can create a registry file that, when executed, will eliminate the feature from their system.
Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00
[HKEYCURRENTUSERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionShell ExtensionsBlocked] “{CB3B0003-8088-4EDE-8769-8B354AB2FF8C}”=”Ask Copilot”
After saving the file with a .reg extension and executing it, users are advised to confirm the changes and restart their computers. It is recommended to back up the Windows Registry before making any modifications, given the importance of these files.
The rationale behind Microsoft’s decision to implement this feature, despite the apparent lack of enthusiasm from users, seems to be a strategic move to boost the usage of Copilot. With reports suggesting that the user base for Copilot has plateaued, this persistent presence in the context menu serves as a reminder of the tool’s capabilities, regardless of whether users choose to engage with it actively. By keeping Copilot at the forefront of users’ minds, Microsoft aims to encourage greater adoption of its AI-driven assistant.
