Microsoft is doubling down on its commitment to artificial intelligence within Windows 11, adding new capabilities to the Copilot app, though not all users are thrilled about the growing presence of this virtual assistant.
New Right-Click Menu Integration
The latest version of the Copilot app (1.25044.93.0) introduces a notable change: a new “Ask Copilot” option within the right-click context menu for compatible files. This feature, highlighted by Neowin, allows users to quickly summon Copilot for file summaries or contextual actions. For example, right-clicking a document can now trigger an instant content overview, providing a faster way to interact with files directly from the desktop.
This integration follows a recent announcement from Microsoft about adding AI-driven actions within File Explorer, the default app for managing files and folders. While these changes are still being tested, early signs of implementation are already appearing.
Microsoft Store Integration Still in Early Stages
In addition to desktop enhancements, Microsoft is also experimenting with Copilot integration in the Microsoft Store. According to Windows Latest, the company is testing a new Copilot button on product pages within the digital storefront. Clicking this button opens a dialog box with suggested questions like “Ask Copilot about this product” or the option to compare it with similar software using a “Compare” button.
However, this integration remains basic. Currently, selecting these options merely redirects the user to the Copilot app without providing a truly native comparison experience within the store page itself. This approach feels somewhat clumsy, lacking the seamless interaction that many users might expect. It’s possible that Microsoft plans to refine this in future updates.
Mixed Reactions from Users
Not everyone is likely to embrace these changes. For those who regularly use Copilot, the expanded access through context menus will be a welcome addition, making AI assistance more readily available throughout the system. However, for those less enthusiastic about AI, this new menu entry might seem like unnecessary clutter, occupying space without clear value.
Fortunately, Microsoft offers ways to disable this feature. Users can remove the “Ask Copilot” option from the context menu by tweaking the Windows Registry, though this process is not recommended for those unfamiliar with advanced system settings, as it can lead to stability issues. Alternatively, users can fully uninstall the Copilot app through the Start menu, removing all traces of the assistant from the system.
Hardware Requirements for Advanced Features
Microsoft is also pushing forward with new AI-driven features that promise faster system settings adjustments and improved search capabilities. However, these advanced options will only be available on Copilot+ PCs equipped with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU), which can handle AI workloads locally without relying on the cloud.
This hardware dependency highlights a growing trend in the tech world, where cutting-edge AI features are increasingly tied to dedicated hardware, potentially leaving older devices without access to the latest innovations.
As Microsoft continues to integrate AI more deeply into Windows 11, it remains to be seen how users will respond to these ongoing changes and whether the company can strike the right balance between innovation and usability.
