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Microsoft introduces ‘Ask Copilot’ box to Windows 11’s taskbar – but only if you want AI there – November 2025

Author/Source: Darren Allan / TechRadar See the full link here

Takeaway

Microsoft is rolling out an optional ‘Ask Copilot’ search box directly onto the Windows 11 taskbar. This update aims to provide a more convenient and immediate way for users to engage with the AI assistant, offering an alternative to clicking the dedicated Copilot icon.

Technical Subject Understandability

Beginner

Analogy/Comparison

Imagine having a special button on your TV remote that takes you directly to your favorite streaming service, instead of having to navigate through menus. This new search box is like that direct button for accessing Copilot.

Why It Matters

This update matters because it makes AI more accessible and integrated into daily computer use, potentially saving users time and effort. For instance, a user could quickly type a query into the taskbar box to summarize an article or generate ideas for a project, without needing to open a separate application.

Related Terms

Copilot: Microsoft’s artificial intelligence assistant, designed to help users with various tasks.
Taskbar: The horizontal bar at the bottom of the Windows desktop, containing the Start button, open applications, and system tray.
Windows 11: The latest major release of Microsoft’s Windows operating system.
UX (User Experience): How a user interacts with and perceives a product or system, focusing on ease of use and satisfaction.