Microsoft has announced a major Windows 11 update that brings a new wave of AI features to every PC, with Copilot at the center of the experience. The update integrates voice, vision, and contextual intelligence across the operating system, transforming all Windows 11 devices into AI PCs.
The announcement was shared by Yusuf Mehdi, Executive Vice President and Consumer Chief Marketing Officer at Microsoft, who explained that an AI PC should understand natural input through text or voice, perceive what’s on screen, and take action on behalf of the user — all securely and with user permission.
“Hey Copilot” Voice Activation
The new “Hey Copilot” wake word allows users to interact hands-free with Copilot using natural voice commands. Available as an opt-in feature, it lets users start conversations by saying “Hey Copilot…” followed by a question or task.
To end a session, users can say “Goodbye” or allow it to close automatically after inactivity. Microsoft reports that voice users engage with Copilot twice as much as text users, showing how voice simplifies AI interactions.
Copilot Vision Now Available Worldwide
Copilot Vision is now available globally across all markets where Copilot is supported. It enables AI to interpret desktop and app content to provide real-time assistance.
Key capabilities include:
- Full desktop and app sharing: Copilot analyzes screen content to offer guidance and insights.
- Highlights: Ask “show me how” to get step-by-step visual assistance within apps.
- Full app context in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint: Vision can interpret entire documents for contextual analysis.
- Text-in Text-out (coming soon): Windows Insiders will soon be able to chat with Vision using text as well as voice.
Deeper AI Previews via Copilot Labs and Windows Insider Program
Microsoft is introducing experimental AI and agentic features through Copilot Labs for Windows Insiders. These early previews allow testing and feedback on new AI-driven experiences before public rollout.
New Taskbar Integration with “Ask Copilot”
A reimagined taskbar integrates Copilot directly into everyday PC workflows. The Ask Copilot entry point provides quick access to Voice and Vision features, enabling natural interaction by voice or text.
The refreshed Windows Search now offers instant results while typing, leveraging existing Windows APIs without giving Copilot access to user content.
Copilot Actions for Local Files (Preview)
Microsoft is previewing Copilot Actions on Windows to allow AI to perform actions directly on local files. Users can describe tasks such as sorting photos or extracting PDF information, and Copilot will attempt to execute them automatically. This preview starts with limited scenarios to refine performance and reliability through feedback.
Copilot Connectors and Windows Integration
Copilot Connectors let users link services like OneDrive, Outlook, and Google Drive, Gmail, Calendar, and Contacts.
Examples include:
- “Find my dentist appointment details.”
- “What is the email address of Mary?”
- “Find my school paper from Econ 201.”
Copilot can also export generated results directly to Word, Excel, or PowerPoint. Additionally, integration with Windows Settings enables users to make quick adjustments using natural commands such as “Make my screen easier to read” or “Help me focus by reducing distractions.”
New Agentic Tools: Manus and Filmora Integration
Microsoft introduced Manus, a new AI agent for Windows that can create websites using local documents. In File Explorer, right-clicking and selecting “Create website with Manus” builds a website automatically using local files without manual uploads or coding.
Manus uses Windows’ Model Context Protocol for secure background processing. Another AI action integrates Filmora, enabling users to start video editing directly through File Explorer.
Gaming Copilot with ROG Xbox Ally
In collaboration with ASUS, Microsoft has launched Gaming Copilot on the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X handheld gaming devices. Players can press and hold the library button to summon Copilot for in-game assistance, recommendations, and tips — without exiting gameplay.
Security Commitments for AI and Agentic Features
Aligned with the Secure Future Initiative, Microsoft emphasized user control and transparency for all AI-driven features.
Key safeguards include:
- Copilot Actions are off by default and can be paused or disabled anytime.
- Users can monitor progress and approve sensitive actions.
- All features roll out gradually through previews for responsible testing.
Microsoft reaffirmed that Windows 11 remains its most secure OS, built with multiple defense layers for privacy and safety in AI experiences.
Availability
The new Copilot and agentic experiences are rolling out to all Windows 11 devices where Copilot is supported. Users can access the latest updates via the Microsoft Store.