Microsoft is once again reimagining how Copilot, its AI-powered assistant, functions within Windows. Following its demotion to a Progressive Web App (PWA) earlier this year, the latest update introduces a “native” experience for Copilot, offering a refreshed taskbar UI and a new keyboard shortcut.
What’s New with Copilot?
The new iteration of Copilot brings a quick view UI that floats above the taskbar, providing a more seamless experience reminiscent of Microsoft’s Companion apps for files, contacts, and calendar entries.
- Quick View Interface: The quick view UI stays on top of other applications, allowing users to interact with Copilot without minimizing or navigating away from their current tasks. It can be easily dismissed back to the taskbar or reopened as needed.
- Keyboard Shortcut (Alt + Space): The update introduces a shortcut for quick access, though it may cause conflicts with other apps using the same combination. Microsoft acknowledges this issue, stating that whichever app launches first will take precedence for the shortcut.
Available for Both Windows 10 and Windows 11
Despite announcing that Windows 10 support will officially end in October 2025, Microsoft is extending this new Copilot functionality to both Windows 10 and Windows 11 users. This move aligns with Microsoft’s earlier decision to reopen beta testing for Windows 10 features, ensuring users extract maximum value from their current devices.
A Look Back: Copilot’s Evolution
Copilot’s journey has been anything but straightforward:
- Initial Release: Introduced as Windows Copilot in Windows 11, it debuted as a sidebar integrated across apps.
- PWA Demotion: Microsoft later scaled it down to a basic web app, stripping away many of its advanced capabilities.
- Native Rebirth: The latest iteration is touted as a native app, though technically, it remains a web view wrapped in a native interface.
The Shortcut Debate
Previously, Copilot used the Windows + C shortcut, inherited from the now-defunct Cortana. The decision to move to Alt + Space has sparked criticism, as this combination is already widely utilized by various apps. Microsoft has hinted at exploring other options for keyboard shortcuts, suggesting that the final implementation may still evolve.
Why It Matters
This update highlights Microsoft’s commitment to refining Copilot for a better user experience. By integrating Copilot more deeply into Windows, the company continues to emphasize its focus on AI as a core component of its operating systems. However, the ongoing adjustments to Copilot’s functionality and shortcuts underline the challenges of creating a seamless and intuitive AI assistant that satisfies diverse user needs.
Looking Ahead
As Microsoft experiments with Copilot’s design and usability, its potential to become an indispensable tool for Windows users continues to grow. Whether it’s tackling tasks more efficiently or offering smarter assistance, Copilot’s evolution signals a future where AI plays an even more integral role in personal computing.
