Microsoft has announced an update for its AI assistant, Copilot, through the Windows Insider Program. This program allows users to access new features for various Microsoft applications and provides feedback to Microsoft on the usefulness of these updates.
The major change involves the Copilot app itself. Previously, Copilot was available as a Progressive Web App (PWA) on Windows computers, which is essentially a hybrid between a website and a native app. With the new update, the PWA is being replaced by a fully native Copilot app for Windows. Once installed, Copilot will appear as a standalone application in the taskbar, making it easier to access when needed.
To facilitate quicker access to Copilot, Microsoft has introduced a new shortcut. By pressing the Alt + Spacebar keys, users can quickly open Copilot on both Windows 10 and 11. This shortcut brings up a new Quick Access window directly above the taskbar. Users can move this Copilot window to any location on the desktop that suits them best. In the future, the window will open in that specific location and hover over all other active applications.
However, Microsoft acknowledges that this could potentially lead to issues. Many current programs use the same shortcut, which could cause confusion. To address this, Windows 10 and 11 will determine which app was opened first and which apps are running in the background. This will help prioritize which window the shortcut should register for. Microsoft has stated that the shortcut combination might be changed if these issues become more prevalent.
This update is part of Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to enhance user experience by integrating AI tools more seamlessly into their operating system. Copilot is designed to assist users in various tasks, making their workflow more efficient and productive.
Microsoft’s commitment to innovation is clear with these updates, aiming to make AI tools more accessible and useful in everyday computing. The feedback from the Windows Insider Program will be crucial in refining these features and ensuring they meet user needs effectively.
Overall, the introduction of a native Copilot app and the new shortcut are steps towards a more integrated and user-friendly AI experience on Windows. As Microsoft continues to develop and refine these tools, users can expect even more enhancements and features that leverage AI to improve productivity and ease of use.
Stay tuned for more updates and features as Microsoft continues to innovate in the field of AI and software development.