Windows

How to Manage Copilot Side by Side in Windows 11

Written by

Richard

Apr 11, 2024 Updated Apr 17, 2026 3 min read

This guide explains how to dock or undock the Copilot side panel in Windows 11.

Starting with Windows 11 build 23493, Microsoft introduced a new AI assistant. It helps you change computer settings and work across different apps using simple conversation.

If your computer has this feature, you will see a new Copilot button will appear on the Taskbar.. You can open it by clicking the icon or pressing the Windows key + C on your keyboard. It usually appears as a pop-up window.

When Copilot is active, you can use it for many tasks, such as 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, and enable or disable Copilot plugins.

A recent update lets you “dock” Copilot. This locks it to the side of your screen so it acts like a regular app window while you work on other things.

Why use Side by Side mode?

Docking Copilot is helpful because it stays visible on your screen. You do not have to keep opening and closing it. This makes it easier to use the AI while looking at other documents or websites at the same time.

What happens when you are done?

Once you dock or undock the panel, your Windows settings will remember your choice. The next time you open Copilot, it will appear in the position you selected.

How to dock or undock the Copilot panel

You can change this setting easily by following these steps:

Open the Copilot panel by pressing the Windows key + C.
Click the three dots (menu) button at the top of the Copilot window.
Click the Side by Side button.
- If it is checked, the panel will dock to the side of your desktop.
- If it is unchecked, the panel will return to its standard floating pop-up mode.

Windows 11 desktop showing the Copilot AI assistant docked side by side

Note: Some advanced system changes for Copilot may require admin privileges. If you are prompted for a password or permission, ensure you are logged in as an administrator to proceed.

Summary

You can easily control how Copilot appears on your screen by using the “Side by Side” setting in the menu. Docking the panel turns it into a permanent side window, which is great for multitasking. You can toggle this feature on or off at any time using the steps above.

How do I enable Copilot Side by Side in Windows 11?

To enable Copilot Side by Side, press the Windows key + C to open Copilot. Then, click the three dots button and select the Side by Side option to dock it on your desktop.

Can I undock Copilot in Windows 11?

Yes, you can undock Copilot by opening it with the shortcut Windows key + C. Click the three dots button and then click the Side by Side option to toggle it off, which will undock the side pane.

What is the purpose of the Copilot Side by Side feature?

The Copilot Side by Side feature allows users to interact with the Copilot tool alongside other applications, enhancing multitasking capabilities. It provides a more versatile user experience by keeping the Copilot interface readily accessible.

Is Copilot available on all Windows 11 devices?

Copilot is available on devices running Windows 11 build 23493 or later. Ensure your system is updated to access the Copilot features, including the Side by Side functionality.

What can I do with Copilot once it's docked?

Once Copilot is docked, you can use it to change system settings, interact with Bing Chat AI, and manage multiple applications seamlessly. You can also resize the Copilot pane and access various features directly from the side panel.

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Tags: #Windows 11