Microsoft is reportedly testing a significant overhaul of the Windows 11 widgets board by introducing "Copilot Discover," an AI-driven news feed designed to replace the traditional MSN feed. This initiative aims to deliver a more personalized and efficient user experience by leveraging artificial intelligence to curate content based on individual preferences.
According to reports, the Copilot Discover feed offers a faster and more responsive interface compared to its predecessor. Users can interact with news stories through upvote and downvote options, follow or block specific outlets, and bookmark items of interest. Additionally, embedded videos within the feed play automatically, enhancing the multimedia experience. A notable feature is the Notifications button, which highlights breaking news and stock market updates, customizable to user preferences.
It's important to note that while the layout is powered by Copilot Discover, the news content still originates from MSN. Clicking on a story directs users to the MSN website, though some articles can be read directly within the widgets panel, improving user experience. The widgets have been reorganized into a separate tab within the board, and the board itself no longer supports full-screen mode. The Weather widget's position and size are now fixed, though these changes are subject to further development and user feedback.
This development aligns with Microsoft's broader strategy to integrate AI across its products. For instance, Microsoft Edge is testing a redesigned New Tab Page that prominently features Copilot, replacing the traditional MSN news feed with a cleaner interface that includes a Copilot chat box and suggested search terms. This move reflects Microsoft's commitment to centralizing AI-driven interactions within its ecosystem.
Furthermore, Microsoft has announced plans to allow users to disable the MSN feed in the Windows 11 widgets board, providing options for different layouts, including a "widgets only" mode. This change addresses user feedback requesting more control over the content displayed in the widgets panel.
In summary, Microsoft's introduction of Copilot Discover represents a significant step toward integrating AI to enhance user engagement and personalization within Windows 11. By replacing the traditional MSN feed with an AI-curated experience, Microsoft aims to provide a more responsive and tailored content delivery system, reflecting its ongoing commitment to innovation and user-centric design.
Source: Neowin Microsoft planning to replace MSN feed in Windows 11 widgets with Copilot Discover
