First Microsoft Copilot came for laptop keyboards and now it is setting its sights on Windows 11’s File Explorer. This change was spotted within Windows 11’s Insider Preview Build 26020, which marks the first Canary Channel build for 2024.
In contrast to numerous Canary builds, the latest iteration, Build 26020, brings forth several notable new features. However, what truly sets this update apart is the subtle suggestion of an impending feature. This update hints that Microsoft is planning to add its Copilot AI to the File Explorer, likely enabling easier access to files.
Copilot AI is powered by OpenAI’s GPT 4 model and is available in the form of a chatbot, just like ChatGPT. It can be accessed through the web via internet browsers, but can also be downloaded as a standalone app on smartphones. Now it will slowly make its way to Windows laptops and desktops as well.
In a recent discovery, Windows enthusiast PhantomOcean3 has discerned intriguing code modifications within Windows 11 Canary Build 26020 and Windows 11 Dev Build 23612. This has led to speculation that Microsoft may be in the process of integrating Copilot functionality into the File Explorer context menu.
While it is not hard to imagine how Copilot AI will function inside the File Explorer, tipster Leopeva64 has given us an idea of what to expect. The tipster believes that the changes in the code are meant to introduce features such as “Send this file to Copilot” or “Send to Copilot” in the File Explorer context menu.
It appears once users send a file to Copilot, the AI will be able to analyze it and provide explanations, summaries, or key takeaways from the document. For instance, if a user sends a PowerPoint file to Copilot, it will summarize the presentation.
Currently, Copilot finds its place in the Windows 11 taskbar, albeit with somewhat restricted functionality. Notably, a few months back, Microsoft extended the presence of this chatbot to Windows 10 users, broadening its reach.
The prospect of Copilot potentially making its way to the Windows 10 File Explorer context menu sparks intrigue and curiosity among users. The prevailing assumption is that Microsoft will introduce this feature in Windows 11 before considering Windows 10. As this evolution unfolds, it promises to bring exciting possibilities, enhancing the overall user experience and functionality of both operating systems.
