Copilot in Windows 11 is Microsoft’s AI assistant built into the operating system. It can answer general questions like a chatbot, and in some cases it can help open or change Windows settings with your approval.
Does this affect you?
Use this if you see the Copilot icon on your Windows 11 taskbar and want to know what it does, how to open it, and how it differs from paid Microsoft 365 Copilot.
Open and start using Copilot in Windows 11
On current Windows 11 systems, Copilot may already be available.
- Click the Copilot icon on the taskbar, or press Win + C if that shortcut is supported on your Windows build.
- When the Copilot panel or app opens, type a question or request into the message box.
- Sign in with a Microsoft account for higher limits and a more complete experience. Some use may be available without signing in, depending on region and rollout.
- Ask general questions, request a summary, draft a short message, convert units, brainstorm ideas, or get help with Windows tasks.
- Close Copilot with the X button or the same keyboard shortcut if supported.
Use Copilot’s Windows-specific features
The Windows version can sometimes interact with your system instead of only replying with text.
- Ask it to open or change supported settings, such as dark mode, Bluetooth settings, sound settings, or microphone controls.
- Ask for help with a visible task or Windows menu when supported. Copilot may explain the step or open the right settings page.
- Use it to summarize a supported web page or help understand a long article.
- Ask for instructions for common Windows tasks, such as taking a screenshot, checking startup apps, finding storage usage, or troubleshooting Bluetooth.
- If a direct action is not available on your version, Copilot will usually fall back to written instructions.
More control
Review privacy and permissions
Copilot does not need to constantly monitor everything to answer normal questions. For system-level actions and visible-content features, review permissions under Windows privacy settings and only allow access you are comfortable with.
It is different from Microsoft 365 Copilot
Free Copilot in Windows is separate from paid Microsoft 365 Copilot inside Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Teams. Seeing the taskbar icon does not automatically mean you have the Office-integrated paid features.
Features roll out gradually
Some Copilot abilities depend on region, Windows version, account type, and updates. If something is missing, check Settings > Windows Update. You can also hide the taskbar icon under Settings > Personalization > Taskbar.
Sources
- Microsoft Support – What is Copilot in Windows? (2026)
- Microsoft Support – Use Copilot in Windows (2026)
- Microsoft – Copilot pricing and plans (2026)