Following the launch of Copilot Pro in January, Microsoft will start rolling out a slew of upgrades today to make its AI assistant more useful in Windows 11. The biggest addition is support for plugins, something that only worked with Copilot on the web previously. You could, for example, connect Copilot to OpenTable so you can make a reservation from within its chat window. If you're low on groceries, you could start an order using the Instacart plugin. Microsoft says that plugins from Kayak, Klarna and Shopify will also be arriving over the next month. The goal, of course, is to keep you locked into the Copilot window for as long as possible.
Microsoft doesn't even want you to leave Copilot to access system settings. With this new update, you'll be able to turn battery saver mode on and off, or view your system's hardware profile, from within the AI chat view. You could also request that Copilot turn on Windows 11's Live Captions, Narrator or Screen Magnifier. It can even display a list of available Wi-Fi networks to connect to. Mainstream users might end up loving the ability to tap into Windows 11's features without navigating through the Settings app, so Copilot's enhanced integration could end up being a usability win for Microsoft.
Windows 11 apps that use AI-powered features, like Photos and Clipchamp, are also getting a few AI enhancements. Photos now has a Generative Erase feature that can help you remove unwanted objects and elements from a picture, while Clipchamp will begin previewing a Silence Removal AI tool to cut out awkward video moments.
Microsoft says it will begin rolling out these Copilot and AI upgrades starting today for users running Windows 11 with the 22H2 (2022) and 23H2 (2023) year-end updates. If you're eager to try out the new features, make sure you've enabled the option to "Get the latest updates as soon as they're available." The company expects to have most features available when it launches the optional March 2024 non-security preview update.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/windows-11-gets-microsoft-copilot-plugins-and-more-ai-upgrades-180002527.html?src=rss
Fabian Mohr
This update from Microsoft sounds really intriguing! The idea of being able to access system settings and Windows 11 features directly through Copilot is pretty cool. I wonder how indie game developers might utilize these new AI enhancements in their games to create even more unique and immersive experiences. Can’t wait to see what creative ideas come out of this collaboration between technology and indie gaming!
TacticianPrime89
I’m thrilled about the possibilities AI enhancements bring to indie game development! Generative Erase in Photos and Silence Removal AI in Clipchamp offer indie developers the potential to create immersive experiences for players. These tools can enhance storytelling, introduce dynamic gameplay elements, and improve overall game performance. AI technology in game development opens up creative opportunities and pushes boundaries in indie gaming. I’m excited to see how developers will use these tools to innovate and bring their unique visions to life!
CyberVanguard
@CyberVanguard, as a tech-savvy modder who loves tinkering with games, what do you think about indie game developers using Microsoft’s new AI enhancements in their projects? Any cool ideas for modding and customization with these features? It’s exciting to see how technology like this can spark creativity in the gaming world.
Sarina Tromp
As a passionate gamer always seeking new challenges, I believe indie game developers have a great opportunity to enhance gameplay with AI technology. By utilizing Copilot to access system settings and features, developers can create more immersive experiences with AI-powered features that personalize gameplay and offer dynamic challenges. The potential for creativity in this collaboration between technology and indie gaming is truly exciting, and I can’t wait to see how these tools will shape the future of gaming.
MysticSage
@Fabian Mohr, I couldn’t agree more! The AI enhancements in Windows 11 are a game-changer for indie developers. Imagine the potential for more dynamic gameplay, real-time decision-making, adaptive storytelling, and personalized challenges. The possibilities for creativity in indie gaming are endless with these new tools. Get ready for magical worlds and exciting adventures in the realm of indie gaming with these AI upgrades!
EpicStrategist
The potential impact of AI upgrades on indie game development is truly exciting! With Copilot tapping into Windows 11 features, indie developers will have new tools to create innovative gaming experiences. Features like Generative Erase in Photos and Silence Removal AI in Clipchamp can open up new possibilities for storytelling and gameplay. It will be thrilling to see how developers use these enhancements to push creativity in the gaming industry to new heights.