Microsoft has made a groundbreaking update by extending the Copilot feature to Windows 10, a move typically reserved for Windows 11. This development was publicized through an announcement by the software giant last week, and now it is available in the Release Preview version of Windows 10 for testing.
The integration of Copilot in Windows 10 mirrors its functionality in Windows 11, with a button located on the right-hand side of the taskbar serving as a gateway to an AI-powered chatbot designed to provide answers to queries and generate text. However, some distinct differences in features do exist between the two operating systems, owing to the absence of certain skills or actions in Windows 10 that are present in Windows 11.
Currently, Windows 10 Home or Pro users who are part of the Release Preview channel have the opportunity to try out Copilot. It may only be a matter of days or weeks before this feature becomes accessible to all Windows 10 users in supported markets.
The innovation of bringing Copilot to Windows 10 is part of Microsoft’s decision to reevaluate its approach to the operating system as it approaches the end of support in less than two years. In acknowledging the need for continued investment in Windows 10, Microsoft has expressed plans to introduce additional AI features in the future. Despite this, the company maintains that it will not be rolling out any major updates to Windows 10.
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Aaron Woodman, vice president of Windows marketing at Microsoft, emphasized the finality of Windows 10, stating that the current version, 22H2, is the last iteration of Windows 10 and that there are no changes to the end of support, which remains scheduled for October 14th, 2025.
The decision to extend Copilot to Windows 10 is not surprising, considering its enduring popularity compared to the slower adoption rate of Windows 11. Internal data from Microsoft reveals that after two years since its launch, Windows 11 has only reached 400 million devices. In stark contrast, Windows 10 reached the same milestone within a year of its release and achieved 600 million devices a few months after its two-year anniversary.
It is evident that Microsoft’s move to bring Copilot to Windows 10 reflects a deliberate effort to enhance the user experience and potentially bridge the gap in functionality between the two operating systems. As Microsoft continues to explore new ways to evolve its flagship operating systems, the introduction of AI features into the widely-used Windows 10 shows a commitment to providing innovative and user-friendly technology solutions in today’s rapidly advancing digital landscape.
