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It comes as no surprise that ever since the success of ChatGPT, Microsoft has been hard at work trying to incorporate generative AI in all of its services. Now, in line with these efforts, Microsoft is set to introduce an AI assistant to Windows 11 called Windows Copilot, which aims to enhance the user experience by offering features such as document summarization, music recommendations, and tech support for PCs.
The new AI Copilot will be available through a preview version of Windows, and according to the company’s videos, it will appear as an icon on the taskbar. And when a user clicks on the icon, the copilot will open in a chat interface similar to the Bing AI Chatbot, allowing users to type questions and perform specific actions, such as adjusting settings to enhance focus or carrying out other tasks on the PC. However, it is important to note that the chatbot is not available yet, and testing will begin in June, as confirmed by Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft’s marketing chief for consumer products.
“Once open, the Windows Copilot sidebar stays consistent across your apps, programs, and windows, always available to act as your personal assistant. It makes every user a power user, helping you take action, customize your settings, and seamlessly connect across your favourite apps,” said Panos Panay, Microsoft’s head of Windows and devices.
Support for plug-ins
What makes this new announcement even more interesting is the fact that the new Windows Copilot will also support plug-ins developed for Bing or OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Therefore, opening a slew of opportunities for developers to extend the assistant’s functionality and make it even more useful. Moreover, Microsoft has also confirmed that any future improvements for its Bing AI Chatbot or ChatGPT will also make their way to the Windows Copilot, thus ensuring that it remains up to date.
This development marks a significant milestone in Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to embracing AI technology. During the Microsoft Build developer conference, CEO Satya Nadella expressed the magnitude of this achievement and even compared it to the launch of the first iPhone and the introduction of the internet.