Directly integrated with the Windows taskbar, Copilot will be able to respond to written or spoken questions in natural language, performing various tasks and offering solutions to common problems.
Unlike Bing Chat and other services based on generative AI, the way Windows Copilot is integrated with Microsoft’s operating system and applications makes it possible to perform all kinds of tasks. For example, users will be able to ask the Copilot assistant to find a specific Windows setting and bring up the relevant menu on the screen. You’ll even be able to ask the AI to do certain things for you, such as adjusting screen brightness or volume, diagnosing your network connection, and launching an app just by saying its name.
In supported apps like Microsoft Word, you’ll be able to call on the Copilot AI for fairly complex tasks. For example, generating a summary of ideas presented in overly long documents.
Like rival Google Assistant, Windows Copilot will also be able to answer questions that aren’t necessarily related to Windows or installed apps. For example, providing information about public transport routes or plane tickets. Microsoft is also encouraging developers to create plugins that extend Copilot’s functionality, while also announcing that it will include ChatGPT and Bing plugins.
Windows Copilot will be accessible from a button added to the Windows taskbar. The interface takes the form of a sidebar that remains open as long as you need the help provided by the AI.
