Microsoft has again updated its AI-powered Copilot assistant in Windows 10 and 11. The update switches from using a UWP app to a native implementation that enhances the tool’s accessibility and integration.
The revamped Windows Copilot UI introduces a floating quick view interface, a new Alt + Space keyboard shortcut, and . These changes reflect Microsoft’s plans to incorporate AI-driven functionality into its core operating systems.
A Native Upgrade for Copilot
The latest version of Copilot transitions from a Progressive Web App (PWA) to a native application. While still relying on web technologies, the new implementation integrates more seamlessly into the Windows environment, offering users a streamlined experience.
One of the standout features is the quick view interface, which hovers above other apps and remains accessible without disrupting the user’s workflow. Activated through the “Alt” + “Space” shortcut or a system tray icon, the floating window can be resized and repositioned for enhanced usability.
In its announcement, Microsoft stated, “For any apps installed on your PC that might utilize this keyboard shortcut, Windows will register whichever app is launched first… as the app that is invoked when using Alt + Space.”
This behavior, while functional, may cause conflicts with other applications using the same shortcut. Microsoft has acknowledged this issue, pledging to explore alternative shortcut configurations based on user feedback.
Although Microsoft plans to end support for Windows 10 in October 2025, the updated Copilot features are available for both Windows 10 and 11. This decision reflects a broader strategy to ensure that all users, regardless of their system’s age, benefit from new features.
Earlier in 2024, Microsoft reopened beta testing for Windows 10, indicating its commitment to providing value to users who remain on legacy systems.
Smarter Taskbar Tools: Beyond Copilot
In parallel with Copilot’s updates, Microsoft is currentlz developing a smarter file search feature for Windows 11’s taskbar with a similar interface. Screenshots leaked by an insider reveal a floating search panel with filters for file types such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Additional contextual options allow users to search by collaborators or recent activity, significantly enhancing the efficiency of locating both local and cloud-based files.
At Microsoft Ignite 2024, Pavan Davuluri, Windows Chief, emphasized the importance of these productivity-focused enhancements, saying, “We will bring Microsoft 365 People, Files, and Calendar to your taskbar so your Graph data is just a click away.”
The Copilot update builds on Microsoft’s long-standing efforts to integrate productivity tools directly into the taskbar. Past innovations, such as Phone Link and Microsoft Teams integrations, have transformed the taskbar into a centralized hub for managing calls, messages, and collaboration.
The addition of smarter file search and Copilot’s floating interface represents the next stage in this evolution, further embedding AI into Windows
Microsoft Graph and WebView2: The Technologies Behind the Tools
The development of smarter taskbar features is supported by Microsoft Graph and WebView2, two core technologies within the company’s ecosystem. Microsoft Graph acts as an API framework that connects data across Microsoft 365 services, enabling intelligent features such as contextual search.
By analyzing metadata like document titles, collaborators, and recent activity, Graph helps users locate files and resources quickly, even when exact filenames are unknown.
WebView2, a lightweight framework built on Microsoft Edge’s rendering engine, allows developers to embed modern web technologies into native applications. Its efficiency and low resource consumption make it an ideal choice for applications like the floating search panel and Copilot’s new quick view interface.
When I try to open edge on my home computer, which is windows 11, I only get the sidebar. When I try to access from the edge search, I get Microsoft Copilot. It is “coming soon” page. I like having access to a full page when I am doing serious chats. The sidebar can be a very annoying interface. It has the effect of sending me to rival GPTs.
So you mean that edge opens without the main browsing UI and only opens the sidebar? You might want to update or reinstall edge to see if that helps.
I misspoke (typed). I get a full window with Edge. When I click on the copilot icon in the search, I get a coming soon page. I can use copilot in a sidebar but that is not a great interface. At work with Windows 10, I still get a full page interface for copilot.
As said before, you might have to re-install Edge. Try to open https://copilot.microsoft.com/ in Edge and another browser to see if it loads correctly then.
You can also try with the Edge beta or dev version first as they install as separate browsers. This gives clarity if the issue is browser-related (to your currently installed Edge version):
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/edge/business/download?form=MA13FJ
Info about the channels:
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/deployedge/microsoft-edge-channels