Microsoft Copilot Transforms into Native App for Windows 11

Microsoft's Native Copilot Evolution: A Leap Forward for Windows 11​

Microsoft’s AI helper is stepping into a new era. The latest upgrade to Windows 11’s Copilot marks a significant milestone in its evolution—from a web-based wrapper to a fully native application designed to integrate seamlessly with the operating system. Windows users can now look forward to smoother performance, lower memory consumption, and a user experience that feels as natural as any built-in Windows app.

The Journey to a Native Experience​

For years, Microsoft’s Copilot has undergone several iterations. Its background story reads like an evolution saga: a PWA (Progressive Web App) that once relied heavily on Microsoft Edge’s WebView2, wrapped in layers of web components that resulted in high memory usage. WindowsLatest outlines what it calls the "fifth redesign," wherein Microsoft has finally built Copilot from the ground up using modern Windows technologies like XAML and WinUI .

Key Upgrades Include:​

• Truly Native Interface: With the transition to XAML and WinUI, Copilot now comes with native controls, a proper title bar, and a dedicated system tray icon. The app is no longer a patchwork of web components but a bona fide part of the Windows ecosystem.
• Memory Efficiency: Performance tests reveal a dramatic reduction in RAM usage. While the previous PWA-based version could use up to 1GB of memory, the native Copilot now sits comfortably at around 50-100MB. This represents not just a technical improvement, but also a boost to the overall responsiveness of the application.
• Enhanced User Interactions: The update introduces a new side panel that offers quick access to conversation histories and a streamlined way to begin new chats. Additionally, a picture-in-picture mode adds flexibility, particularly for multitasking Windows environments.
• Contextual Awareness: One of the striking improvements is Copilot’s newfound ability to understand the operating system context. For instance, if you ask how to disable Spotlight on Windows 11’s desktop, Copilot can now offer answers tailored to the specific version of the OS. This level of contextual integration opens the door for future features where Copilot might control parts of Windows, blending productivity with intuitive support.

These updates directly position the new Copilot as a strong competitor in the evolving realm of AI assistants, particularly when compared to apps like ChatGPT that still rely on Chromium Electron. The native approach not only improves speed and efficiency but also bolsters the overall user experience.

Beyond the Redesign: Local Processing and NPU Integration​

ExtremeTech adds another layer to the story, revealing that the transition to a native app has broader implications. According to details shared by Windows Report—and first noted by a user on X—the new native Copilot is poised to leverage the power of local processing .

What Does This Mean for Windows Users?​

• Embracing Local AI Capabilities: With native integration, future Copilot updates may run more processing tasks locally on your device. This minimizes reliance on cloud-based services, promising a faster and more secure AI experience.
• Harnessing the Neural Processing Unit (NPU): Designed to tap into the device’s NPU, the Copilot app could execute query responses and other tasks with impressive speed and efficiency. Relying on hardware acceleration means that as NPUs become more prevalent in next-gen Windows devices, expect even smoother and more responsive interactions.
• Rolling Out on Windows Insider Builds: For now, these advancements are being previewed by Windows Insiders. Broader release is anticipated later this year, hinting at a significant update rollout that could redefine everyday workflows for Windows users.

Why a Native Copilot Matters​

The move to a native architecture does more than just trim memory usage. It symbolizes a broader strategy by Microsoft to tightly integrate AI assistance within the very fabric of Windows 11. Here’s a deeper dive into its implications:

Enhanced Performance and System Integration​

• Smoother UI Experience: By using Windows-native frameworks, the Copilot app benefits from smoother transitions, faster load times, and an overall more consistent look and feel with the operating system. This not only makes the app more appealing visually but also operationally efficient.
• Resource Optimization: With reduced memory overhead, system resources are freed up for other tasks. This is particularly beneficial for users with devices that have lower specifications and for professionals who depend on performance and multitasking.
• Design Consistency: The commitment to employing XAML and WinUI ensures that every component of Copilot feels like it was designed to be part of Windows 11 from the ground up. This consistency can reduce the learning curve and foster broader adoption among users.

Security and Compliance Considerations​

Recent reports indicate that Microsoft has also tweaked Copilot’s functionality to curb risks. In response to user discoveries, the app has been updated to prevent it from offering guidance on illegal activities—such as bypassing activation for Windows and Office. This proactive measure reflects Microsoft’s dedication to security and compliance, ensuring that the native Copilot not only enhances productivity but also adheres to legal standards.

Future Possibilities: AI-Driven OS Control​

One of the most intriguing prospects raised by these upgrades is Copilot’s potential to interact more deeply with Windows itself. Imagine a future where you can instruct your OS directly—“Turn on night light,” “Adjust the volume,” or “Open my favorite app”—and have Copilot seamlessly execute these commands. Right now, it may not boast full OS control, but its ability to deliver context-aware responses is a foundational step toward a more integrated AI-driven operating system.

A Closer Look: The Technical Breakdown​

For the tech enthusiasts out there, this upgrade is a case study in modern application development on Windows. Here’s how Microsoft is shaping the future of AI assistants:

• From WebApp to Native: The previous reliance on Chromium-based frameworks meant that a significant portion of the app’s performance was beholden to web technologies. This not only increased memory usage but also introduced potential bottlenecks. The switch to native Windows controls eliminates many of these issues.
• Leveraging Modern Frameworks: Thanks to XAML and WinUI, the app now supports high-resolution displays, dynamic scaling, and advanced animations that feel more in tune with Windows 11’s overall aesthetic.
• Optimizing for NPUs: As devices start featuring dedicated neural processing hardware, the design of native Copilot points to a future where processing AI tasks locally becomes standard. This could mean faster response times, reduced latency, and a more robust user experience even in offline or limited connectivity scenarios.
• Streamlined Memory Usage: The dramatic reduction in memory footprint—from 1GB in the web-based version to around 50-100MB in the new native build—is a testament to the efficiency gains achievable when building applications specifically optimized for an operating system.

User Impact and What to Expect Next​

For everyday Windows users, these changes are set to redefine what an AI assistant can do. The native integration translates into:

• Improved Efficiency: With less memory and CPU drain, your system can allocate resources to other essential tasks. This could be a game-changer for professionals using resource-intensive applications alongside Copilot.
• A More Intuitive Interface: Thanks to its native design, the user interface is not only visually sharper but also more responsive, creating a fluid interaction that enhances everyday tasks.
• Enhanced Security and Performance: With the potential to run locally and leverage hardware acceleration, users can expect a more secure, faster, and more reliable AI-assisted experience.

Broader Implications for Windows 11​

Microsoft’s evolution of Copilot underscores a broader trend in tech: the convergence of robust AI with native system architecture. As AI assistants become more embedded within our operating systems, users can expect major changes in how they interact with their devices. This shift is not solely about convenience—it's about redefining productivity, security, and system performance on Windows 11.
Anticipate further integration in future updates, as Microsoft continues to refine the native experience. With better OS awareness and smoother UI interactions, Copilot is poised to become an indispensable tool for both casual users and power professionals.

Final Thoughts: A New Chapter for Windows AI​

Microsoft’s bold step to redevelop Copilot as a native app on Windows 11 is more than just an update—it’s a paradigm shift. It heralds a new era where AI assistants are part of the OS DNA, equipped to handle everything from streamlined design and efficient resource management to potential local processing via NPUs.
For enthusiasts and everyday users alike, this upgrade promises a future where interacting with AI is as natural as using any built-in Windows app, paving the way for innovations that will redefine our digital interactions. Keep an eye on Windows Insider channels for further updates, as the full rollout of these advancements is just around the corner.
Whether you’re a tech professional or someone who simply enjoys a smoother, more responsive Windows experience, the new native Copilot is set to be a key player in the ongoing evolution of the Microsoft ecosystem. Stay tuned—for the future of Windows is not only brighter but also significantly smarter.

---

Sources:

• Microsoft's Copilot just got a big upgrade on Windows 11, more native than ChatGPT now
• Microsoft Copilot for Windows Is Transitioning to a Native App

 

[ChatGPT]

The revamped Microsoft Copilot app marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Windows productivity tools. With Microsoft reimagining its digital assistant as a truly native app, Windows users – whether on Windows 10 or Windows 11 – are about to experience a faster, more integrated, and system-savvy helper that takes full advantage of the operating system’s robust technologies.

A Fresh Look at Copilot: Native Integration Reimagined​

Gone are the days when users had to hunt for a hidden sidebar or rely solely on web-based interfaces. The new Copilot app has been rebuilt from the ground up using native Windows technologies like XAML and WinUI, ensuring that it not only looks right at home on Windows desktops but also integrates seamlessly with the operating environment. This deep integration means that Copilot now boasts its own taskbar icon, dedicated controls, and even a picture-in-picture mode that lets you keep it visible while multitasking.
Key improvements include:

• Direct download and installation via the Microsoft Store for both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
• A redesign that shifts from a mere sidebar function or a web app to a standalone, fully featured desktop companion.
• Intuitive integration that harmonizes with the existing Windows shell for a more natural user experience.

As Windows 11 continues to refine its user interface, the new Copilot app stands out as a testament to the platform’s focus on streamlined productivity and enhanced user interaction.

Performance and Efficiency: Lightweight Yet Powerful​

Early reports from initial testers suggest that the revamped Copilot outperforms even established competitors like the ChatGPT desktop app. The secret lies in its native design – a transformation that minimizes delays and drastically reduces the app’s memory footprint. On average, Copilot uses only 50 to 100 MB of RAM, an impressive efficiency that ensures smooth performance even on systems with modest hardware configurations.
Performance highlights include:

• Faster response times thanks to direct integration with Windows’ core components.
• Reduced resource usage, which not only improves system speed but also contributes to overall energy efficiency.
• Streamlined processes that handle user queries and system interactions with minimal latency, ensuring that the assistant remains both responsive and unobtrusive.

For professionals and casual users alike, this lean design translates to a more fluid multitasking experience. Imagine toggling between demanding applications without worrying about your digital assistant slowing you down – that’s the power of thoughtful native integration.

Enhanced Personalization and System Awareness​

A standout benefit of embedding Copilot natively into Windows is the deep system awareness it now possesses. Traditional digital assistants often function as separate entities, disconnected from the nuances of a user’s actual operating environment. In contrast, the new Copilot leverages its integrated design to access information about installed apps, system components, and user preferences, thereby crafting more personalized and context-aware responses.
This enhanced personalization can help in scenarios such as:

• Providing tailored troubleshooting tips based on the specific Windows configuration.
• Offering dynamic assistance that reflects recent software updates or system changes.
• Suggesting personalized shortcuts or tips that align with the user’s typical workflow patterns.

While Copilot isn’t yet capable of controlling Windows 11 itself, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation among tech enthusiasts that future updates could bestow even greater control, making it an indispensable companion for everyday computing.

The Windows 11 Ecosystem: A Platform Built for Innovation​

The decision to extend Copilot’s availability to both Windows 10 and Windows 11 underscores Microsoft’s commitment to a unified, future-proof user experience. Windows 11 has progressively redefined productivity with innovative features such as centered taskbars and updated system animations, and now, with Copilot’s native integration, the ecosystem takes a leap towards a more interactive and supportive desktop environment.
Benefits for the broader Windows ecosystem include:

• A unified assistant experience that works across different versions of Windows, ensuring continuity for users transitioning between platforms.
• Improved synergy with Windows 11’s design language, enabling smoother interactions and intuitively aligned aesthetics.
• The foundation for potential features that could allow Copilot to serve as a control hub for system settings, app management, and even security alerts down the road.

For IT professionals and enthusiasts who follow Windows 11 updates closely, the native Copilot app could serve as a harbinger for future OS-level integrations that align with the broader trajectory of digital transformation.

Tech Community Reactions and Industry Impact​

Initial feedback from industry insiders paints a promising picture. Testers comparing the new Copilot to the ChatGPT desktop app have noted its superior performance and seamless integration. This feedback is not just a win for Microsoft but also an indication of the shifting landscape for AI-powered digital assistants. As operating systems evolve, the need for tight integration and efficient performance becomes paramount.
Some of the community’s top observations include:

• Enhanced reliability and responsiveness in real-world tasks.
• A more intuitive user interface that caters to users from diverse backgrounds – from enthusiasts to professionals.
• Optimized resource consumption that ensures a negligible impact on system performance, even during intensive multitasking scenarios.

These improvements have sparked discussions on popular forums and tech communities, where many users are excited about the possibilities of future integrations. The natural progression seems to be moving towards an assistant that not only responds to queries but also proactively enhances system productivity and security through smart notifications and personalized settings adjustments.

Getting Started: Installation and Setup Guide​

For those eager to explore the new Copilot app, the rollout has been made accessible through straightforward channels:

• Navigate to the Microsoft Store on your Windows device.
• Search for the latest version of the Copilot app – currently identified as version 1.25023.101.0.
• Click on “Install” and wait for the download to complete. Windows 11 Insiders might see the app appear automatically as part of their update cycle.
• Launch the app from your taskbar or through the newly integrated shortcut. A quick tour will help you familiarize yourself with the new picture-in-picture mode and interactive controls.
• Begin your journey by starting a conversation with the AI chatbot, then explore different queries related to your system settings, troubleshooting guides, or productivity hacks.

For Windows 10 users, this update offers a significant boost in functionality, enabling them to harness cutting-edge AI without needing the latest operating system. This inclusiveness is a nod to Microsoft’s commitment to enhancing user experiences across its diverse desktop ecosystem.

Future Possibilities: A Glimpse Ahead​

While the current iteration of Copilot is impressive, the potential for future enhancements is even more exciting. Industry watchers speculate that eventual updates could empower Copilot to:

• Control various system settings, such as adjusting volume or switching between power modes.
• Proactively monitor your system’s health and security, offering real-time advice on defending against cybersecurity threats.
• Act as a central hub for integrating other Microsoft services and third-party applications, making your desktop a one-stop solution for productivity.

Imagine a future where your digital assistant not only answers your questions but also autonomously optimizes your workflow, preempts system issues, and even coordinates daily tasks across multiple devices. Such functionality would not only reinforce Microsoft’s vision of an interconnected digital ecosystem but also set new benchmarks for AI-driven productivity.

Broader Implications for the Windows Community​

The launch of the native Copilot app is more than just another software update; it signals a broader shift in how AI and operating systems can coalesce. By embedding advanced AI directly into the fabric of Windows, Microsoft is laying the groundwork for a future where digital assistants are truly inseparable from the computing experience. This innovation aligns with current technological trends that emphasize connectivity, personalization, and enhanced user engagement.
For IT professionals, tech enthusiasts, and everyday users alike, the benefits are manifold:

• Enhanced productivity through quick, context-aware assistance during routine tasks.
• Greater system efficiency due to reduced resource consumption by integrated apps.
• A tangible step towards smarter computing, where systems learn from user interactions and adapt to individual workflows.

WindowsForum readers might find these developments particularly intriguing as discussions continue on topics like Windows 11 updates and future Microsoft security patches. Such dialogue not only enriches community knowledge but also sparks ideas about how native integration in digital assistants could drive broader industry trends.

Conclusion​

In summary, Microsoft’s revamped native Copilot app is setting a new standard for digital assistants on the Windows platform. With superior performance, a drastically reduced memory footprint, and a design that integrates elegantly into the OS, Copilot is poised to transform everyday computing. While it may not yet control every facet of your system, its potential for future updates ensures that it will only grow more indispensable over time.
As we look ahead, the native Copilot stands as both a practical tool and a symbol of what’s to come—a future where digital assistants are fluid extensions of our operating systems, intelligently intertwined with our digital lives. For Windows users eager to stay at the forefront of productivity and innovation, this update is a clear signal to embrace the next chapter of AI integration and enhanced user experiences on the Windows platform.

---

Source: PCWorld Microsoft's revamped Copilot app for Windows goes truly native