As users navigate the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, Microsoft’s Copilot has sparked a mix of intrigue and disappointment. Initially, the potential for seamless integration with Windows was promising, allowing users to control their PCs with AI assistance. However, the transformation of Copilot into a conventional AI assistant has left many yearning for the original vision.
Enter Windows-MCP, a third-party solution designed to fill the gap left by Microsoft. Leveraging advanced language models like Anthropic’s Claude, Windows-MCP empowers users to manage their PCs more intuitively. From launching applications to adjusting settings and even installing software, it embodies the functionality that many hoped for from Copilot.
It takes some work to set up
Setting up Windows-MCP is not without its challenges. Users must navigate a series of prerequisites, including Python 3.13 or newer, the Claude desktop app, and the UV package manager for Python. Additionally, installing Node.js and Git is essential for a smooth setup. While the process may seem daunting, following the outlined steps can lead to a successful installation.
Once the necessary components are in place, users can create the Windows-MCP extension for Claude and integrate it into the desktop app, marking the beginning of a new era in PC control.
Controlling your PC with text commands
After overcoming the initial hurdles, users can harness Claude’s capabilities to execute a variety of commands. The transparency of the process allows users to observe each action taken, whether it’s launching an app or entering text. While Claude requires permission for different actions, this security measure can disrupt the flow of commands. For a more seamless experience, users might find it easier to grant blanket permissions for actions.
During testing, Claude demonstrated its ability to open and close browsers, launch applications, and even summarize web content. However, the limitations of the free plan restrict the number of interactions, leaving users eager for more functionality.
Is it worth it, though?
Despite its intriguing premise, the practicality of Windows-MCP raises questions. The time taken for Claude to execute commands often exceeds what users would spend performing the tasks themselves. While the tool may assist with unfamiliar tasks, such as adjusting display settings, the overall experience can feel sluggish and cumbersome.
Users have reported bugs, including issues with browser profiles and unexpected behavior when issuing multiple commands in succession. Such inconsistencies detract from the user experience, prompting skepticism about the tool’s long-term viability.
At least it’s trying something interesting
While Windows-MCP may not yet deliver a flawless experience, it offers a glimpse into what could have been achieved with Microsoft’s Copilot. The concept of a more integrated and responsive AI assistant remains appealing, and there’s hope that Windows-MCP will continue to evolve into a more robust tool. For now, it stands as a testament to the potential of AI in enhancing user interaction with technology, even if the execution leaves room for improvement.
