Hey Linux enthusiasts! If you’ve ever sat back, stared at your sleek Linux terminal, and wished that Microsoft’s Copilot AI could weave its magic within your non-Microsoft world—your wish isn’t as far-fetched as it used to be. True, Microsoft still hasn’t rolled out an “official” Copilot client for Linux, but the good news? You don’t need to wait for one. With a few clever workarounds, you can have Copilot running on your Linux desktop like a charm.
Now, are we saying you’ll have Copilot natively integrated into your OS? Not exactly. But with a couple of web-facing tricks, you’ll feel like it’s part of your desktop experience. Intrigued? Here’s everything you need to know.
Here are some ways Linux users might want to leverage Copilot:
The bottom line? While we can’t predict when (or if) Microsoft will offer native Linux support for Copilot, these simple workarounds get you close enough. So fire up your favorite Chromium browser today, tweak your system, and let Copilot lend its AI brilliance to your Linux desktop.
Questions? Got a smoother workaround? Let’s keep this conversation going—because collaboration makes us all a little smarter. Drop your thoughts below, and happy tinkering!
Source: ZDNET How to use Microsoft's Copilot AI on Linux
Now, are we saying you’ll have Copilot natively integrated into your OS? Not exactly. But with a couple of web-facing tricks, you’ll feel like it’s part of your desktop experience. Intrigued? Here’s everything you need to know.
Option 1: Use the Copilot Chrome Extension
Whether you’re browsing with Chrome, Chromium, or another Chromium-based gladiator, this option is both quick and ridiculously easy. It’s a great choice for those who want to access Copilot AI periodically without making it feel overly “mainstream.”What You Need:
- A Chromium-based browser, such as Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge (yes, it runs on Linux!), Opera, or Brave.
- A Microsoft account.
Setup Steps:
- Head to the Chrome Web Store: Fire up your browser and locate the unofficial Copilot extension in the Chrome Web Store. You’ll need to add it to your browser.
- Install the Extension: Click the shiny “Add to Chrome” button (or “Add to Opera,” “Add to Brave,” etc.) and let the extension install itself without any hiccups.
- Pin It Like a Boss: For convenient access, pin the Copilot extension to your browser toolbar. This saves you from digging into menus every time inspiration strikes.
- Log Into Microsoft: When prompted, sign in with your Microsoft account credentials. This step connects the extension to your account, enabling seamless usage of Copilot.
- Let the Magic Begin: Voila! The Copilot app will open in a cute little window that you can use to bomb through tasks. Write code, ask questions, or brainstorm—your AI sidekick is ready.
Option 2: Create a Copilot Web App (Pseudo-Native Solution)
Now let’s kick things up a notch for the purists. This method lets you launch Copilot from your Linux desktop as if it’s a proper, discrete app. It’s not really native, but it sure feels like it—and that might be all you need.What You Need:
- Again, a Chromium-based browser is required.
- A Microsoft account.
Make It Happen:
- Navigate to Microsoft Copilot’s Website: Open your browser and visit the Copilot web portal at
[[URL='https://copilot.microsoft.com%5B/ICODE%5D(https://copilot.microsoft.com%5B/ICODE']https://copilot.microsoft.com(https://copilot.microsoft.com%5B/ICODE[/URL])]. - Save It as an App: Use your browser’s option to save the website as a desktop app. This option may vary slightly depending on the browser:
- In Chrome/Chromium: Open the browser's menu, go to "More Tools," and click "Create Shortcut." Be sure to check the option for opening it as a window.
- In Edge: Use “Apps” > “Install this site as an app.”
- Give the App a Swanky Name: Assign a name like “Copilot” (if you want that extra head-turning aesthetic in your Applications menu). Click “Install” or “Save.”
- Open It Like Any Other App: Your Linux desktop menu now includes what looks like a “native” Microsoft Copilot application. Launch it, and it’ll open in a minimalistic window sans browser clutter. It’s clean, it’s intuitive, and it does the trick.
Why Use Copilot on Linux?
You might wonder why you’d go all Sherlock Holmes on a workaround for Copilot when you could stick with the tools Linux already offers—like GitHub Copilot within code editors. Valid point! However, Microsoft’s Copilot AI isn’t just for developers—it’s increasingly designed to assist in a variety of contexts, from writing emails to brainstorming business ideas. Accessing this versatility on Linux gives power users the best of both worlds.Here are some ways Linux users might want to leverage Copilot:
- Programming Assistance: Even for C++ wizards or Python aficionados, Copilot can accelerate workflows.
- Content Creation: Bloggers, academic writers, and anyone dealing with text-intensive tasks could use Copilot to co-create content.
- Administrative Tasks: Imagine drafting reports or summarizing data? Copilot can help shape ideas while you sip your coffee.
Are There Any Drawbacks to These Methods?
Sure, no solution is perfect. Here are a few things to keep in mind before diving in:- Internet Dependence: Both options rely on a stable internet connection—there’s no offline mode.
- Limited Integration: These solutions don’t offer deep OS-level integration. Unlike the native versions available on Windows or macOS, it’s really just running through a “browser wrapper.”
- Security: Trusting third-party browser extensions always warrants caution. While unofficial tools like the Chrome extension may work, they don’t carry Microsoft’s seal of approval.
Final Thoughts: Linux Is All About Choice
The beauty of Linux lies in the freedom to shape your environment the way you want. And while this Microsoft AI doesn’t technically belong to Linux’s open-source ecosystem, it’s heartening to see how adaptable Linux can be in making such tools accessible.The bottom line? While we can’t predict when (or if) Microsoft will offer native Linux support for Copilot, these simple workarounds get you close enough. So fire up your favorite Chromium browser today, tweak your system, and let Copilot lend its AI brilliance to your Linux desktop.
Questions? Got a smoother workaround? Let’s keep this conversation going—because collaboration makes us all a little smarter. Drop your thoughts below, and happy tinkering!
Source: ZDNET How to use Microsoft's Copilot AI on Linux
