Windows 11's New Copilot: A Promised Native Experience or Just a Web Shortcut?

Microsoft is back in the spotlight, and this time it's with a new iteration of its Copilot feature for Windows 11. But hold that enthusiasm; the reality might not be as thrilling as it sounds. Let's dive into what this new "native" Copilot actually delivers and how it impacts the everyday Windows user.

What’s in a Name: The “Native” Copilot​

The term "native" conjures images of applications that are deeply integrated into the operating system, offering seamless performance and user experiences. However, Microsoft’s latest offering appears to fall short of that promise. While it’s being touted as a replacement for the previous web app version of Copilot, it primarily acts as a convenient shortcut to the very same web functionalities many were already using.

The Myth of a Native Application​

Here's the main kicker: while Microsoft describes the new Copilot as a “native version,” it still primarily operates through a web interface. In fact, as Windows Latest pointed out, about 95% of the new Copilot remains web-based. The only significant change is it no longer functions as a Progressive Web App (PWA) running in Microsoft Edge. Instead, now it uses WebView2 to deliver the interface, which is merely a thin layer over the existing website.

• System Tray Access: The new Copilot will appear in the system tray, adding a semblance of integration into the Windows ecosystem.
• Quick View UI: A new user interface accessible via the Alt+Space keys, which, you guessed it, merely opens the Copilot website in a more compact window.

What's Really Different?​

Now, let’s get real about what you can expect with this update:

• Limited Native Features: Apart from a slightly more native aesthetic—think a native title bar—most features still load and function via the internet.
• Dialog Interface via Edge: Privacy notices and other dialogues continue to open in Microsoft Edge, further cementing the web-app nature of the Copilot.
• Initial Preview Stage: As it stands, this iteration is in a preview phase, meaning it could evolve with more robust features in the future. But for now, users are left with something that could be better classified as a web shortcut.

A Step Backward?​

It’s worth asking: Is this actually an improvement? The Copilot was intended to enhance user productivity, not create a confusing hybrid experience. Instead of a fully-fledged, integrated application, what Microsoft offers is a fancy façade. For users hoping for more advanced functionalities or privacy features, this version might feel like a missed opportunity.

The Bigger Picture: Where Is Microsoft Heading with Copilot?​

Microsoft has ambitious plans for its Copilot features across its device ecosystem. With the rise of AI in the workplace and daily tasks, the company likely sees Copilot as a significant player in making Windows 11 smarter and more user-friendly. Yet, with prospects of native functionality seeming dim at the moment, users may be left wondering what the long-term vision entails.

• Integration with Other Microsoft Services: Future updates might bring better integration with Microsoft Teams, Outlook, and other services that could lend more utility to Copilot.
• Enhanced Personalization: Future updates may focus on improving the personalization and context awareness features, allowing Copilot to function as a more efficient assistant.
• User Feedback Impact: As it’s still in preview, user feedback may significantly influence the ultimate direction this feature will take.

Conclusion: Navigating the "Native" Copilot Experience​

As Windows users, it’s essential to stay informed about updates and enhancements. While the prospect of a “native” Copilot sounds appealing, current developments suggest a more complex reality. With tools like WebView2 still at the helm, we might not want to raise our expectations too high just yet.
In a world where efficiency and productivity are king, let's keep our fingers crossed that Microsoft uses this preview feedback loop to evolve Copilot into a genuinely native experience that blends seamlessly with our workflows, rather than merely being an elegant entry point to a collection of web services. Until then, consider this latest “update” a moment of reflection on what true integration entails in the evolving world of technology.

Questions for You​

What are your thoughts on this new Copilot update? Are you satisfied with a web-based experience, or do you crave something deeper and more integrated? Let us know in the comments!

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Source: ITC.ua Microsoft has created «native» Copilot for Windows 11 — it is again a web application