Microsoft simplifies Windows 11 by reducing AI integrations and adding user-requested features like taskbar placement and faster File Explorer.
Redmond: Microsoft is making changes to Windows 11 to make it better for users. The company is reducing the number of ways people can use its AI helper, Copilot. Many users said there were too many AI features, and some were not helpful.
Microsoft is removing Copilot from some apps like Photos, Widgets, Notepad, and Snipping Tool. The company wants to add AI only where it is really useful. Pavan Davuluri from Microsoft said the team listened to users who wanted fewer AI features.
A recent study found that half of Americans are more worried than excited about AI. This may be why Microsoft is changing its plans. Earlier, the company had planned to put Copilot in more places but decided not to do that. Some of the AI plans were quietly stopped.
Microsoft also delayed an AI memory feature called Windows Recall for over a year because of privacy worries. Even after it launched last April, problems with security are still being found. The company is learning from user feedback.
Along with reducing AI, Microsoft is giving people more choices. Users can now move the taskbar to the top or sides of the screen. They can control update times better. File Explorer is faster now. Widgets work better, and the Feedback Hub is updated. It is also easier to join the Windows Insider Program.