Microsoft has rolled out a new wave of AI-powered upgrades for Windows 11, designed to make its Copilot assistant smarter, faster, and more deeply integrated into users’ everyday computing experiences.
The update introduces a “Hey Copilot” wake word that allows users to activate the AI assistant hands-free and issue voice commands — a feature now available as an opt-in setting on all Windows 11 PCs.
Microsoft is also expanding Copilot Vision, which can analyze what’s on a user’s screen and answer related questions, to all markets where Copilot is available. A new version for Windows Insiders will let users interact with Vision not just by voice, but also through text commands.
The company’s goal is to make Copilot an integral part of how users interact with their PCs helping automate everyday tasks, manage workflows, and connect seamlessly across devices.
A major highlight of the update is “Copilot Actions”, an experimental mode that lets the AI assistant perform real-world tasks directly from the desktop, such as booking restaurant reservations or ordering groceries online. The feature builds on a similar capability introduced earlier in Microsoft’s web browser.
Microsoft said these AI agents will operate with limited permissions, gaining access only to resources that users explicitly allow, to ensure privacy and security.
The update also introduces “Gaming Copilot”, now embedded in Xbox Ally consoles, giving players access to real-time gameplay tips, recommendations, and troubleshooting support through the AI assistant.
“We think we’re on the cusp of the next evolution — where AI isn’t just a chatbot, but becomes naturally integrated into the hundreds of millions of experiences people use every day,” said Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft’s Consumer Chief Marketing Officer.
The upgrades is Microsoft’s latest move to boost Copilot adoption and stay ahead of rivals Google and Meta, both of which are expanding their own AI assistants across devices, apps, and browsers.
