Microsoft Revamps Copilot on Windows: New Native Experience with Quick View UI and Keyboard Shortcuts

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Introduction: Microsoft is once again redefining the user experience for its AI tool, Copilot, on Windows. After demoting Copilot to a Progressive Web App (PWA) earlier this year, the tech giant is now introducing an update that replaces the PWA version with a “native” experience. This new iteration includes a novel keyboard shortcut and a quick view UI, offering users a more integrated and seamless interaction.

The New Native Experience: The latest update sees Copilot transitioning from a web-based app to a more “native” implementation. This shift is designed to provide a smoother and more cohesive user experience. The new quick view for Copilot floats above the taskbar, reminiscent of Microsoft’s Companion apps for files, contacts, and calendar entries. This quick view can be easily accessed using the new Alt + Space keyboard shortcut or through the system tray.

Functionality and Features: The primary function of the quick view is to float above all other applications, staying on top until dismissed to the taskbar or re-engaged with the Alt + Space shortcut. While the quick view doesn’t offer unique functionalities beyond this persistent presence, its seamless accessibility marks a significant improvement in usability.

Keyboard Shortcut Complications: However, the introduction of the Alt + Space shortcut may lead to some conflicts. Many applications already use this shortcut, potentially causing issues with which app takes precedence. Microsoft clarifies that Windows will register the first app launched and running in the background as the one invoked by the Alt + Space shortcut. This could lead to some initial confusion among users accustomed to other app behaviors.

Historical Context and Evolution: This change raises questions about Microsoft’s decision to move away from the previously utilized Windows key + C shortcut, originally inherited from Cortana. The shift to a PWA had initially seen the abandonment of the shortcut in favor of a dedicated Copilot key. Microsoft’s ongoing exploration of keyboard shortcut options reflects its commitment to refining the user experience, though it may appear that the AI assistant is now driving these decisions.

Compatibility and Future Prospects: Interestingly, the new Copilot quick view and keyboard shortcut are also being made available for Windows 10, despite Microsoft’s plans to end support for the operating system in October 2025. Earlier this year, Microsoft reopened beta testing for new Windows 10 features, aiming to maximize the value for users of the older OS. This move ensures that both Windows 10 and Windows 11 users can benefit from the latest Copilot enhancements.

The Journey of Copilot: Originally introduced as Windows Copilot in Windows 11 last year, Copilot was integrated into the OS as a sidebar capable of appearing across all applications. Subsequent iterations saw it become less functional, particularly with the introduction of Copilot Plus PCs, which reduced the app to a basic web interface. Microsoft’s claim of the latest version being “native” may still be debatable, as it largely remains a web view within a more integrated framework.

Conclusion: Microsoft’s continuous refinement of Copilot demonstrates its dedication to enhancing the AI assistant’s utility and user experience. The move to a native implementation, coupled with the quick view UI and new keyboard shortcut, aims to streamline interaction and increase accessibility. As Microsoft navigates these updates, it remains committed to evolving Copilot to meet user needs and expectations, setting the stage for future innovations in AI-driven tools.