Microsoft Tests Ask Copilot in Windows Taskbar and File Explorer

Microsoft is testing deeper AI integration in Windows 11, adding a new “Ask Copilot” experience directly into the taskbar and File Explorer.

The feature first appears in the latest Windows preview builds and signals a shift in how Copilot should be integrated across the operating system. Instead of launching standalone AI apps, Microsoft is integrating conversational AI into core Windows workflows.

Microsoft Adds Ask Copilot to the Taskbar

At the center of the update is a new feature called Ask Copilot.

When enabled, Ask Copilot replaces the traditional Windows Search experience in the taskbar. The interface introduces an “@” command syntax that looks like tagging in the chat groups.

For example, typing commands such as @researcher can trigger specialized AI agents designed to handle extended tasks, including summarizing technical documents or gathering background research.

Some of these AI tasks can run for several minutes. Windows displays real-time progress indicators in the taskbar, similar to file download progress animations.

The integration connects to Microsoft 365 AI services rather than operating as a standalone assistant.

Copilot Comes to File Explorer

Microsoft is also testing Copilot inside File Explorer.

A new button within File Explorer allows users to generate document summaries and insights without opening separate applications. These annotations draw from Microsoft 365-connected services.

This means shared or synced documents can display AI-generated context directly inside the file view.

The goal of adding Copilot directly inside File Explorer is to reduce app switching and embed AI directly into daily workflows.

A Shift in Microsoft’s AI Strategy

After the previous feedback from the market, the current preview suggests a quieter implementation. Instead of foregrounding AI as a separate feature, Microsoft is embedding it into existing UI.

This approach treats AI as infrastructure layered into the OS rather than as a headline interface.

Availability and Rollout Of A New Copilot Feature

Microsoft says Ask Copilot will begin rolling out to Windows 11 users in the coming weeks. The feature is currently visible in preview builds.

The company has not disclosed how broadly Copilot integrations will expand across Windows or whether additional system areas will receive similar functionality.

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