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How to Use Windows 11 Copilot: Setup & Features

Richard
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Richard
Aug 11, 2026 Updated Sep 13, 2026 3 min read
Windows 11 Copilot: Get Started & Master It
Windows 11 Copilot: Get Started & Master It

Windows 11 Copilot is a built-in artificial intelligence assistant that lets you write emails, search for files, and change settings using chat prompts. This sidebar tool lives right on your taskbar so you can ask questions and get help while you work across apps.

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You can launch Copilot instantly on Windows 11 Version 23H2 or newer by pressing the Win+C keyboard shortcut or clicking the taskbar icon. The tool uses your Microsoft account to sync context and handle everyday tasks without making you switch windows.

⚡ Quick Answer

Windows 11 Copilot is your AI assistant built into Windows. To get started, find the Copilot icon on your taskbar and click it. If you don’t see it, you may need to enable it in Windows settings or check for updates . You can also enable voice commands for hands-free use.

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Get Copilot Ready to Use

Initial chats require verified access and proper configuration. Enable the assistant, activate voice triggers, and prepare your workspace for the first prompt.

Use Copilot for Daily Tasks

Active sessions open up daily productivity tasks. Customizing the interface, managing external plugins (add-ons that expand software capabilities), and utilizing screen vision features help maximize the assistant’s utility.

Getting Started with Copilot Vision on Windows 11
1 Getting Started with Copilot Vision on Windows 11 The article explains the new Copilot Vision feature in Microsoft Copilot for Windows 11, enabling voice interactions to ask questions about on-screen content. Users can integrate Copilot into their workflow, allowing hands-free assistance. Regular updates aim to enhance productivity and user experience, making it a significant advancement in digital engagement. 4 min read ↻ Updated Sep 2026
How to Lock and Unlock OneDrive Personal Vault in Windows 11
2 How to Manage Copilot Plugins in Windows 11 The article instructs how to turn on or off plugins for Microsoft's new Copilot feature in Windows 11. Copilot, which operates with Bing Chat AI, enables interaction with multiple applications and system settings through natural language. Users can customize Copilot by enabling or disabling plugins that add functionality according to their needs and preferences. 2 min read ↻ Updated Sep 2026
How to Display Day of the Week on Windows 11 Taskbar
3 How to Resize Windows 11 Copilot Side Pane The article provides a guide on how to resize the Copilot side pane in Windows 11. With the new update in Windows 11 build 23493, users can customize the Copilot side pane size for a more comfortable reading and interacting experience. Steps include hovering the mouse pointer to the pane's left border until the pointer resembles a double arrow cursor, then dragging it to the desired size. 2 min read ↻ Updated Sep 2026
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Manage Your Copilot History

Transcript archives store past interactions automatically. Managing this record involves pruning individual items or wiping the slate clean for a fresh session.

Workspace with dual monitor setup showing AI assistant software and laptop coding interface
1 How to Access Copilot Conversation History in Windows Copilot conversation history in Windows 11 saves your past AI chats automatically so you can view old questions and answers whenever you… 2 min read ↻ Updated Sep 2026
User deleting an AI assistant message on a MacBook Pro chat interface
2 How to Delete items from your Copilot conversation history Deleting items from your Copilot conversation history clears past chats and questions from the AI sidebar in Windows 11. Microsoft Copilot saves… 2 min read ↻ Updated Sep 2026
Computer monitor displaying a home privacy overview dashboard with privacy score, security threats, and data protection status
3 How to Delete your entire Copilot conversation History Clearing your entire Microsoft Copilot conversation history deletes every past chat log that Copilot has saved since its launch in late 2023.… 2 min read ↻ Updated Sep 2026
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4 How to Clear Recent Activity in Windows 11 Copilot The article instructs on how to delete or clear recent activity in the Copilot feature on Windows 11. This new feature added in the Windows 11 build 23493 allows users to interact with Bing Chat AI for various tasks. Clearing the history of recent activities ensures privacy and control over user data. The process involves opening the Copilot sidebar pane, selecting the 'Recent Activity' button, and opting for delete or edit options. 3 min read ↻ Updated Sep 2026

Fine-Tune Copilot's Functionality

Integration with specific utilities occasionally requires troubleshooting or manual configuration. These instructions cover activating the assistant inside Notepad alongside steps to force a reconnect during unresponsive states.

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Common questions

How do I turn on Copilot in 🪟 Windows 11?

The Copilot icon sits on the taskbar by default. Clicking this icon launches the panel instantly. Missing icons usually indicate that the feature needs toggling inside Windows settings or an update pending installation.

Can I talk to Copilot using my voice?

Windows 11 supports voice dictation for hands-free interactions. Activating the 'Hey, Copilot' setting within the system configuration enables voice command functionality.

Where can I see my past Copilot conversations?

Transcript history remains accessible directly inside the active interface window. Locating the history menu reveals previous prompt logs.

How do I get rid of my Copilot chat history?

Cleanup options provide granular control over stored data. Removing specific lines or wiping the entire archive happens inside the application settings panel.

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What are Copilot plugins?

Plugins expand the assistant's capabilities by linking external services and applications directly to Copilot. These add-ons handle complex tasks like booking travel or managing online purchases.

Can I run 🪟 Windows 11 without Copilot?

Yes, you can run Windows 11 without using Copilot. The AI assistant is built into the operating system, but you do not have to open it, sign in, or use its features. You can leave the icon on your taskbar alone and use your computer normally.

Is Microsoft Copilot needed on 🪟 Windows 11?

No, Microsoft Copilot is not required to run Windows 11. Your computer will work normally without it. The assistant is an optional tool designed to help you write text, search for files, and adjust settings through a chat window if you choose to use it.

What are the disadvantages of Copilot?

The main disadvantages of Copilot include potential privacy concerns since it processes your data and prompts. It can also consume system resources while running in the background, and its AI-generated answers occasionally contain errors that require you to double-check the information yourself.

Is Microsoft Copilot free for 🪟 Windows 11?

Yes, Microsoft Copilot is free to use on Windows 11. The basic version comes built into the operating system at no extra cost. Microsoft also offers paid subscription options that provide faster processing and advanced features for heavy users, but the standard tool is free.

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Richard

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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📚 Related Tutorials

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