How to Hide or Unhide Copilot Button on Windows 11
You can hide or unhide the Microsoft Copilot button on your Windows 11 taskbar to manage screen space and your workflow.
Microsoft Copilot is an AI-powered feature integrated directly into Windows 11, designed to assist you with various tasks like changing system settings or summarizing content.
If you find the Copilot icon distracting or unnecessary, Windows 11 offers a straightforward method to remove it from view. This process ensures you can customize your taskbar to your preference.
This capability is available starting with Windows 11 Moment 4 updates and later.
Why hide or show the Copilot button?
You might want to hide the button for a cleaner taskbar or if you do not use AI features. You might want to show it if you accidentally removed it or want quick access to the tool.
What happens when done?
Once you complete these steps, the Copilot icon will either appear on your taskbar or disappear from it immediately, depending on the method you chose.
Method 1Using Windows Settings
This is the easiest way to manage the button for everyday users.
- Open the Windows Settings app. Click the Start menu and select Settings, or press the Windows key + I.
- Click on Personalization in the left menu.
- Click on the Taskbar tile on the right side.
- Look for Copilot (preview). Toggle the switch to On to show the button or Off to hide it.
Method 2Using Local Group Policy Editor
Note: This method requires admin privileges.
You can control the button through the Local Group Policy Editor. Search for “Edit group policy” in your Start menu and open it.
- On the left side, go to: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Start Menu and Taskbar.
- Find Hide the Copilot button in the right pane and double-click it.
- Choose Enabled to hide the button, or Disabled to show it.
- Click OK and close the editor.
Method 3Using the Registry Editor
Note: This method requires admin privileges and involves changing system files. Be careful.
Open the Windows Registry editor by searching for “regedit” in the Start menu. Navigate to this path:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\ExplorerIf you do not see the Explorer folder, right-click the Windows folder, select New, then Key, and name it Explorer.
- Right-click in the empty space on the right side and select New > String Value.
- Name the new item
HideCopilotButton. - Double-click
HideCopilotButtonand set the “Value data” to 1 to hide the button. - To show the button again, simply delete the
HideCopilotButtonitem.
Restart your computer to apply the changes.
Understanding the Physical Copilot Keyboard Key
Newer laptops feature a dedicated Copilot hardware key. This key launches the AI assistant instantly. If you disable the software component, the key may still trigger a notification or open the app. You cannot easily disable the physical key without third-party software to remap it.
Summary
You can manage the Copilot button in Windows 11 using the Settings menu, the Group Policy Editor, or the Registry Editor. Use the Settings menu for the quickest change, or the other methods if you need to manage settings for a specific user or system configuration. While you can hide the icon, Copilot remains a core part of the Windows ecosystem. For more details, see the Microsoft.com blog.
Does disabling Copilot improve system performance?
Disabling the Copilot button removes the icon from your taskbar, which saves a tiny amount of system resources. However, it does not significantly improve overall system performance. The underlying AI services may still run in the background if you use other Microsoft 365 apps that integrate with Copilot.
Is it possible to completely uninstall Copilot from 🪟 Windows 11?
Copilot is deeply integrated into the Windows 11 operating system. You cannot fully uninstall it like a standard application. You can only hide the interface or disable its access through system policies. Microsoft updates may occasionally reset these preferences, requiring you to re-apply your chosen settings.
Why does Copilot keep reappearing after I disable it ?
Copilot often reappears after a Windows Update or if your account settings sync across devices. Microsoft frequently updates the OS to promote its AI features. If you use Group Policy or Registry edits, these settings are more persistent, but major system updates can still override them occasionally.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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