In a bold move towards enhancing user experience, Microsoft is currently testing the removal of a popular Windows 11 feature and replacing it with a powerful AI assistant. The tech giant recently rolled out the Windows 11 preview build for the Dev Channel, featuring Copilot as a primary feature of the operating system.
For over a decade, the “Show desktop” button has been a familiar sight on Windows, allowing users to quickly minimize all applications and return to their desktop with a single click. However, Microsoft aims to make its Copilot AI assistant more efficient and accessible by integrating it directly into the Windows desktop experience.
In the preview build, the shortcut to Copilot is positioned in the bottom-right corner of the screen, adjacent to the notification center and the time and date display. This strategic placement aims to make it easier for users to locate and utilize the AI assistant seamlessly.
While the default “Show desktop” feature is now turned off in the preview build update, it is still available in the system and can be manually enabled. Users can navigate to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors and select the option to show the desktop in the far corner of the taskbar. This allows users to customize their taskbar according to their preferences.
It’s worth noting that while Microsoft is currently testing this setup, there is no guarantee that it will make it to a public Windows build. The current Windows design showcases the Copilot icon positioned to the right of the search bar, providing a more centered frame of reference on a standard desktop.
Microsoft’s decision to integrate Copilot as a prominent feature reflects their commitment to enhancing the capabilities of their AI assistant. Showcasing the voice activation function as an accessibility feature further demonstrates Microsoft’s dedication to inclusivity.
As with any development in technology, it remains to be seen how users will respond to this change. However, Microsoft’s track record of thorough development and testing before releasing features to the public ensures that user feedback will be taken into account before any final decisions are made.
The future of Windows 11 looks promising as AI takes center stage, offering users enhanced productivity and accessibility. As Microsoft continues to innovate and refine its operating system, we can expect even more exciting developments in the intersection of AI and desktop computing.
