Microsoft's New Copilot: Is It Truly Native or Just Repackaged?

In a recent twist of tech fate, Microsoft has announced a new version of the Copilot application for Windows—claiming this iteration to be a “native version.” However, according to several observations, this proclamation might not hold water. In fact, what Microsoft presents as progress appears more like a repackaging of their original offerings rather than a genuine leap forward.

What’s in the New Copilot?​

To understand this latest development, we first need to explore what the Copilot app set out to achieve. Initially, it aimed to integrate AI seamlessly into the Windows ecosystem, providing users with intuitive digital assistance. The original iteration functioned more as an integrated sidebar, dynamically embedding AI capabilities directly into the desktop experience.
Now, moving to the “native version,” Microsoft asserts that it has moved beyond the web app. But let’s be honest—this "native" label is a bit misleading. What users receive is essentially a revamped Progressive Web App (PWA) that’s wrapped in a shiny new interface. The real functionality remains practically unchanged, and the web-dependent nature persists.

The Evolution of Copilot​

Let’s break down the lineage of Copilot’s transformations:

• Original Implementation: This was the desktop-friendly sidebar, designed to blend nicely with Windows. Users could open or collapse it with the Copilot key, fully integrated into the OS environment.
• Progressive Web App Version: This version appeared as a standalone window, redirecting to a webpage when summoned. In this configuration, pressing the Copilot key would only bring up a duplicate browser window—hardly ideal for power users looking for fluidity.
• Current “Native” Release: Users now access a slightly modified web app with a different appearance. Microsoft introduced some additional shortcut keys (Win+C and Alt+Space) to call the app, but these lead to the same underlying functionalities as before.

The Shortcut Conundrum​

Herein lies another quagmire: the addition of the Alt+Space shortcut. While it sounds nice, it can clash with existing key combinations in several applications, including PowerToys—a staple for many Windows enthusiasts. Microsoft has acknowledged this potential overlap, stating that the Copilot's input will take precedence, which raises the question: will users lose access to previously cherished functionalities?

What’s Missed in Transition​

Despite the technical upgrades in appearance and shortcuts, the fundamental issue remains: the Copilot still operates spasmodically rather than natively. Users can't issue system-level commands like in the original sidebar integration. The perception of a fully embedded AI assistant feels like an illusion rather than reality—with the assistance confined to an isolated web page.

Final Thoughts​

So, what does this all mean for the everyday Windows user? The roll-out of the new Copilot might appear to be progress, but the reality is more of an aesthetic change than a truly functional evolution. The promise of a robust, seamlessly integrated AI assistant remains just that—a promise.
In light of this, it’s fair for users to feel a bit misled. With so many changes happening in the tech landscape every day, one might wonder: when will we finally get a true native AI experience on Windows? Only time will tell, but until then, many users will be left waiting for something more substantial.
As you navigate the choppy waters of the Copilot experience, keep an eye on future updates and developments from Microsoft. Whether this is a step toward meaningful AI integration or just another lipstick-on-a-pig situation, we’ll be here to analyze the fallout. Keep those discussions flowing—what are your thoughts on this so-called “native” version of Copilot?

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Source: Pokde.Net Microsoft Says Copilot App Is Now Replaced With A “Native Version” – Except It’s Not