Microsoft Copilot, which half of our polled readers never use, might start to relentlessly appear like an AI genie in Windows 11 if you so much as tickle the taskbar icon
Copilot in Windows might launch like an unwanted pop-up ad.
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What you need to know
If the past year is anything to go by, Microsoft is all in on theAI hype. There’s a Copilot for most of its products and services, and there are no signs of the company slowing down any time soon. Maybe we’ll have a Copilot for Copilot soon.
Theintegration of Copilot AI into the Windows operating systemandMicrosoft Edgehas been received with mixed feelings. Microsoft has been mixing things up by “conveniently” placing the AI chatbot’s icon in easily accessible areas within the operating system, like on the taskbar next to the system tray. I know I’m not the only one who’s mistakenly launchedMicrosoft Copilotwhile trying to check my notifications.
READ MORE:3 reasons why AIs like Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT will only get worse
And now, Microsoft is testing a new way to launch the chatbot on Windows 11. The new “hover experience” is limited to Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel. This new experience simplifies the process of launching Copilot onWindows 11.
According to Microsoft:
“We are trying out a new hover experience for Copilot in Windows. When you move your mouse cursor over the Copilot icon on the taskbar, it will open the Copilot pane. The Copilot pane will close unless interacted with after it opens. This will begin rolling out slowly over the next few weeks to Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel.”
It’s like the Widget panel but more annoying
Based on Microsoft’s explanation, the new hovering experience is reminiscent of how the Widget panel works on Windows 11. Microsoft already has a keyboard shortcut that lets users launch Copilot instantly (Windows key + C).
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I really hope that if this layout ships, MS intends to update the Date/Time button on the Taskbar so it looks better. Right now, it looks really out of place with it being right-aligned and with the bell icon between it and Copilot. pic.twitter.com/VxWB9l72QVJanuary 14, 2024
Copilot seems like a flop among most Windows users
Microsoft is finding more ways for users to quickly launch Copilot in Windows, though its user base isn’t quite as impressive. We asked our readers how useful and frequent they interact with Microsoft Copilot, and below are theresults from the poll:
Based on the results highlighted above, it’s apparent that most users based on the survey either don’t use the AI chatbot entirely or, if they do, on rare occasions. This is quite interesting. Microsoft has shifted its focus to AI and its advances and has practically integrated the technology across most of its products and services.
RELATED:Why Microsoft won’t be the company to mainstream AI
It’s worth noting that this new experience is still in preview. Microsoft might decide to ship it to broad availability or not based on several factors. Not everyone is super hyped about AI and its integration across systems. The tech giant could face backlash for pushing this change to general availability.
RELATED:Microsoft’s Windows 11 Moment 5 feature update is live
Microsoft’s decision to move the date/time button on the Taskbar in Windows 11 is already unpopular among users. I wonder how users will receive the new hovering experience for Copilot if/when it ships to broad availability.
Kevin Okemwa is a seasoned tech journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya with lots of experience covering the latest trends and developments in the industry at Windows Central. With a passion for innovation and a keen eye for detail, he has written for leading publications such as OnMSFT, MakeUseOf, and Windows Report, providing insightful analysis and breaking news on everything revolving around the Microsoft ecosystem. You’ll also catch him occasionally contributing at iMore about Apple and AI. While AFK and not busy following the ever-emerging trends in tech, you can find him exploring the world or listening to music.
