Windows 10: Microsoft Tests Ask Copilot in Windows Taskbar and File Explorer

Microsoft is testing deeper AI integration in Windows 11, adding a new “Ask Copilot” experience directly into the taskbar and File Explorer.

The feature first appears in the latest Windows preview builds and signals a shift in how Copilot should be integrated across the operating system. Instead of launching standalone AI apps, Microsoft is integrating conversational AI into core Windows workflows.

Microsoft Adds Ask Copilot to the Taskbar


At the center of the update is a new feature called Ask Copilot.

When enabled, Ask Copilot replaces the traditional Windows Search experience in the taskbar. The interface introduces an “@” command syntax that looks like tagging in the chat groups.

For example, typing commands such as @researcher can trigger specialized AI agents designed to handle extended tasks, including summarizing technical documents or gathering background research.

Some of these AI tasks can run for several minutes. Windows displays real-time progress indicators in the taskbar, similar to file download progress animations.

The integration connects to Microsoft 365 AI services rather than operating as a standalone assistant.

Copilot Comes to File Explorer


Microsoft is also testing Copilot inside File Explorer.

A new button within File Explorer allows users to generate document summaries and insights without opening separate applications. These annotations draw from Microsoft 365-connected services.

This means shared or synced documents can display AI-generated context directly inside the file view.

The goal of adding Copilot directly inside File Explorer is to reduce app switching and embed AI directly into daily workflows.

A Shift in Microsoft’s AI Strategy


After the previous feedback from the market, the current preview suggests a quieter implementation. Instead of foregrounding AI as a separate feature, Microsoft is embedding it into existing UI.

This approach treats AI as infrastructure layered into the OS rather than as a headline interface.

Availability and Rollout Of A New Copilot Feature


Microsoft says Ask Copilot will begin rolling out to Windows 11 users in the coming weeks. The feature is currently visible in preview builds.

The company has not disclosed how broadly Copilot integrations will expand across Windows or whether additional system areas will receive similar functionality.

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Microsoft Internet Explorer renamed to Windows Internet Explorer ?




Since version 7 of the world`s most popular web browser - Microsoft Internet Explorer was silently renamed to Windows Internet Explorer.Such a step from Microsoft is not a surprise since Internet Explorer is part of the Windows operation system for a long time.Obviously Microsoft corp. wants to state that Internet Explorer is already considered as a part of Windows and not as an external browser (remember the IE and WMP law issues last year!?).

 

Cannot launch File Explorer from taskbar in Windows 10

Hi Juzzy,

Thank you for posting your query in Microsoft Community.

I understand your concern and will assist you to resolve this issue.

I suggest you to follow the steps below and check if it helps.

• First unpin the File Explorer from the task bar.
• Press Windows + E.
• And right click on File Explorer in the taskbar.
• And Pin the File Explorer to Taskbar and Check if it helps.

Hope this helps. If the issue remains unresolved, please get back to us and we would be happy to help.

 

Copilot randomly got removed from taskbar options.

Hello,

I can understand how frustrating it is when an essential feature like copilot disappears unexpectedly.

Here are few steps to fix this issue.

1. Open Settings.
   
   Click on Personalization.
   
   In Taskbar, check if the Copilot toggle is off. If so, turn it on.
   
2. If Group Policy Editor isn’t working, try these steps:
   
   • Press Win + R, and enter gpedit.msc.
     
   • Navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Start Menu and Taskbar.
     
   • Look for any policies related to Copilot and ensure they’re not disabled.
     

If the problem persists, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Thank you.

Have a great day!