Windows Copilot Introduces Quick View Interface and New Shortcuts

Microsoft is Bringing a New Feature

Microsoft is once again improving its Windows Copilot feature, introducing a new update that brings significant changes to its interface and functionality. After turning Copilot into a progressive web app (PWA) earlier this year, the company is now offering a more "native" experience for Windows testers, including a new keyboard shortcut and a new taskbar UI, according to The Verge.

The new version of Copilot introduces a "Quick View" interface that floats above the taskbar, similar to the Companion app that Microsoft is currently testing for files, contacts, and calendar entries.

Do you know what's coming?

This Quick View can be triggered using a new Alt + Space keyboard shortcut or accessed from the system tray. Once activated, Copilot is always on top of other applications unless discarded or reactivated by the same shortcut.

However, the new keyboard shortcut may cause some potential conflicts. Many third-party apps already use the Alt + Space shortcut, and Microsoft notes that in these cases, the first launched app will take precedence.

Windows key + C Shortcuts

"For any app installed on your PC that can use this keyboard shortcut, Windows will register any app on your PC that's been launched before and is running in the background as an invoked app when using Alt + Space," the company explained according to The Verge.

This update marks a notable change from the previous implementation of Copilot, which used the Windows Key + C shortcut analogous to Cortana. After downgrading Copilot to a web app earlier this year, Microsoft opted for a dedicated Copilot key, but now it seems that it is rethinking its approach.

Copilot will help Locate Keyboard Shortcuts

"Copilot will continue to explore options related to keyboard shortcuts for apps," Microsoft said, leaving the door open for future changes. New Copilot features are being rolled out for both Windows 10 and Windows 11, while Microsoft has asserted that Windows 10 will end its support in October 2025. In fact, according to The Verge, Microsoft reopened beta testing for the new Windows 10 feature earlier this year to ensure that users can continue to get the best possible experience up to that deadline.

Copilot Started as a Sidebar

Originally introduced in Windows 11, Copilot debuted as a sidebar that was integrated into various applications, giving users easy access to AI-powered features. However, with the launch of Copilot Plus, the feature became limited to a basic web app. This latest update is described as a "native version", though it remains a web view wrapped in a more native-like implementation.

[Agency]