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How to Create a Desktop Shortcut for Copilot in Windows 11

Written by

Richard

Nov 25, 2023 Updated Apr 17, 2026 3 min read

This guide shows you how to add a quick-access icon for Copilot right on your desktop in Windows 11.

Why do this? Accessing Copilot from the taskbar can be annoying if you prefer a clean desktop or want to launch it with a single click without searching through menus.

What happens when done? You will have a custom icon on your desktop that opens the Copilot AI assistant instantly.

Microsoft introduced Copilot Windows 11 build 23493 to help you change system settings and work across apps using simple text commands. Usually, you open it by clicking the taskbar icon or pressing the Windows key + C. If you want to use it more often, follow these steps to put a shortcut on your home screen.

When Copilot is available on your device, you can pin or unpin the side pane, open Copilot when Windows starts, Turn Copilot on or off, enable or disable Copilot using content from Edge, refresh Copilot prompts, resize the Copilot side pane, delete recent activity, turn plugins for Copilot on or off, and more.

Steps to Create a Desktop Shortcut

1. Right-click on an empty space on your desktop. Select New, then select Shortcut. You can learn more about creating shortcuts here here.

2. A window will appear asking for the location of the item. Copy and paste the following command into the box:

microsoft-edge://?ux=copilot&tcp=1&source=taskbar

Windows 11 new desktop shortcut location

3. Click Next. Type a name for your shortcut, such as “Copilot,” and then click Finish.

How to Change the Icon

To make the shortcut look like the real Copilot icon, follow these steps:

1. Right-click your new shortcut and select Properties.

2. Go to the Web Document tab and click the Change Icon… button.

3. You will need an icon file. You can download one from this link Download copilot icon. If the file is not in .ico format, use an online converter to change it.

4. Use the browse button in the Change Icon window File Explorer to find and select your downloaded icon file. Click OK to save your changes.

Summary

By creating a desktop shortcut for Copilot, you save time and avoid hunting through system menus. This simple process allows you to launch your AI assistant directly from your desktop with one click. By customizing the icon, you can also keep your workspace looking tidy and professional.

How do I create a desktop shortcut for Copilot in Windows 11?

Right-click on an empty area of your desktop and select New > Shortcut. Paste the line microsoft-edge://?ux=copilot&tcp=1&source=taskbar into the location box, click Next, name your shortcut, and click Finish. A new Copilot icon will appear on your desktop for quick access.

Does Windows 11 have a Copilot desktop icon by default?

No, by default there is no Copilot icon on the desktop. Copilot appears as a button on the Taskbar or can be accessed using the Windows key + C keyboard shortcut. You must manually create a desktop shortcut if you want one.

What Windows 11 build do I need for Copilot?

Copilot became available starting with Windows 11 build 23493. This version introduced the new Copilot experience that integrates with Bing Chat AI and allows users to interact with the chatbot using natural language.

Can I change the icon for my Copilot desktop shortcut?

Yes, you can customize the icon by right-clicking the shortcut, selecting Properties, going to the Web Document tab, and clicking Change Icon. You can download a Copilot icon, convert it to ICO format using an online tool, and select it from File Explorer.

What keyboard shortcut launches Copilot in Windows 11?

You can launch Copilot using the Windows key + C keyboard shortcut, which opens the Copilot side pane as a flyout interface. Alternatively, you can click the Copilot button on the Taskbar or use a desktop shortcut if you've created one.

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Tags: #Windows 11

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