As Microsoft phases out support for Windows 10, it is launching a bold AI push in Windows 11 that repositions its Copilot assistant from a background aide into the core of the user experience. The goal: transform every Windows 11 PC into an “AI PC.”
In Microsoft’s words, the firm is embedding AI so deeply that the device becomes intelligent, conversational, and visually aware of the screen context.
Microsoft is making Copilot more conversational, letting users wake it up hands-free by saying “Hey Copilot.” This places voice interaction on par with assistants like Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant. The feature will be opt-in — users must enable it via Copilot settings. Once active, speaking the phrase triggers a microphone icon onscreen and a chime, signaling that Copilot is listening.
To close the session, users can say “Goodbye,” or simply allow it to time out, or manually dismiss it. Microsoft claims voice use leads to twice as much engagement as typing, fostering deeper interaction.
With the visual upgrade, Copilot can analyze what you’re doing on screen — whether in documents, presentations, or apps — and offer suggestions, corrections, or step-by-step guidance. For example, it may review a full PowerPoint deck (beyond just the active slide), adjust formatting, or instruct you how to do things like image resizing or animation setup.
The visual capabilities extend into gaming, photo editing, and travel planning. Microsoft also plans a text-in / text-out option for Copilot Vision for users who prefer typing. Windows Insiders will initially test this mode.
Copilot Vision (with “Highlights”) is now live in the U.S. for Windows 10 and 11, via opt-in in the Copilot app (look for the glasses icon). Microsoft is gradually rolling it out to additional markets and through Windows Insider channels .
A new “Ask Copilot” button is being introduced to the Windows 11 taskbar (initially for Insiders), enabling one-click access to voice and vision modes. This ties Copilot deeper into daily workflows.
Microsoft clarifies that Copilot uses existing Windows APIs to locate files, apps, and settings — similar to Windows Search — and does not access personal content without permission
With Copilot Actions, users can request tasks in plain language — e.g. “resize these images,” “send an email,” or “change display settings” — and Copilot will execute them by interacting with apps or the system. This moves Copilot from assistant to autonomous agent.
These agent actions operate under limited permissions. Copilot can only touch resources and apps the user explicitly authorizes.
Microsoft is also enabling local AI processing in “Copilot+ PCs” with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU). These PCs unlock enhanced features like on-device model inference.
Other additions include:
Settings agent: Natural language commands to adjust system settings (e.g. “enable Bluetooth”)
Click to Do improvements, enhancements in Paint, Snipping Tool, and Photos
Recent Files integration: Copilot can show files you’ve worked on and act on them (e.g. summarise or attach)
For gamers, Microsoft is integrating Gaming Copilot into the Windows 11 Game Bar. It provides in-game tips and assistance without switching to external windows.
Microsoft’s AI overhaul of Windows 11 — with “Hey Copilot” voice activation, Copilot Vision, and Copilot Actions — signals a shift in how we interact with PCs. The company is aiming to transform passive machines into context-aware, conversational partners that can both assist and act.
By weaving voice, vision, and agent capabilities into the OS, Microsoft is betting that the future of computing is less about clicks and commands and more about natural language and visual context. However, success depends not only on seamless integration, but also on maintaining user control, privacy, and reliability. As these features roll out worldwide, the balance between power and trust will be key.