What’s happened? The Redmond-based tech giant Microsoft is rolling out several AI-based features for Windows 11 users. These features are centered around the Copilot assistant and have the potential to change the way you interact with your computer forever.
- You can now summon the AI assistant by using the hotword “Hey, Copilot,” and end a conversation by saying “Goodbye.”
- Then there’s Copilot Vision, a feature that enables the assistant to see and analyze the content on your screen, allowing it to respond to queries, provide tips, or offer troubleshooting instructions. This feature is similar to Recall, which remains available for Copilot+ users.
- Microsoft is also introducing agentic AI experiences to Windows 11 with Copilot Actions (rolling out soon for Windows Insiders), which lets the assistant understand natural language commands and carry out multi-step tasks.
Why is this important? These features come after Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, and are designed to encourage more users to upgrade to the latest operating system the company has to offer.
- The ability to interact with the AI assistant using voice or text-based prompts and make it perform multi-step tasks is a breakthrough for desktop operating systems.
- In addition to the Copilot features, Windows 11 is also getting several security upgrades, enhanced accessibility features, new widgets, File Explorer enhancements, and a refreshed Start Menu design.
Why should I care? If you’re a Windows 11 user with access to the new Copilot features, you’ll experience a major productivity boost, especially with the agentic AI that handles routine tasks efficiently.
- The assistant can now change system preferences, organize your files, fetch insights from your Microsoft 365 or Gmail documents, and even troubleshoot issues based on your requests. Gamers also benefit from in-game guidance with Gaming Copilot (currently in beta).
- Once Copilot Actions exits beta, it should be able to handle tasks like accessing your hotel reservations or flight details from email, downloading them to your device, forwarding them to a contact, and even composing a follow-up email to inform them of any schedule changes — all in response to a simple command.
OK, what’s next? Over time, Microsoft plans to make Copilot even smarter, likely through integration with additional third-party apps via Connectors, a feature currently available to Windows Insiders. As the assistant learns from your usage habits (and the content on the screen), it will begin suggesting actions before you even ask for them. Windows 11 users will also get a new “Ask Copilot” option on the taskbar, wherein users can search for apps, files, and get one-click responses.
