Windows 11: Insiders receive new Copilot functions
Users of the Windows Insider builds can now try out new Copilot functions.
The Copilot Vision function will initially only be distributed in the USA.
(Image: Microsoft)
Microsoft is delivering additional functions in the Copilot app for Insider users. The focus is on search and handling applications.
Anyone using the test versions of the Microsoft operating system on the Windows Insider channels will receive a fresh update of the Copilot app via the Microsoft Store. The new features are included in version 1.25034.133.0 and newer.
New Copilot app brings enhanced file search
As Microsoft explains in a blog post, the new Copilot version can be used to open and search the content of a file and then ask the AI questions about it. In the Copilot settings, users can also customize what Copilot can access and what content the AI is allowed to retrieve and read. According to Microsoft, the file search supports most file types such as .docx, .xlsx, .pptx, .txt, .pdf, .json.
(Image: Microsoft)
Users can now ask Copilot questions such as “Can you find my CV”, “Open the travel planning document I worked on last week” or “Look at my budget file and tell me how much I spent on food last month”, explains Microsoft.
Copilot Vision: Talking about content with AI
The second extension to the Copilot app is called “Copilot Vision”. This is a visual analysis tool with which the AI app can analyze content from browsers or open applications and comment on it in real time. For example, users can click on the glasses icon to share a website or app with Copilot and ask for help, explanations, or recommendations in natural language.
While the advanced search is being rolled out to all Insiders worldwide, Microsoft is initially restricting the visual search to the USA only. As usual, the update will be distributed in batches, so not all Insiders will receive immediate access to the new functions.
Microsoft recently announced a raft of new AI functions for Copilot at an event to mark the company's 50th anniversary. They include areas such as Shopping, Pages, Podcasts, Search and Deep Research. In the future, Copilot will also be given a “memory” to make it more personal.
(mki)