Microsoft will add the ability to remove Copilot from Windows 11, but it's practically impossible to do so
Microsoft is actively expanding AI capabilities in Windows 11 by integrating Copilot into all processes, but many users disagree with this company policy and are looking for ways to remove this AI assistant from their computers.
Previously, this was almost impossible to do, but now Microsoft will provide such an option, although it requires meeting so many conditions that not everyone will manage to get rid of the AI platform.
What is known
Microsoft has published instructions and a list of requirements necessary to remove Copilot, and those interested should carefully familiarize themselves with them.
Microsoft announced that, starting from build 26220.7535, it will be possible to remove the Copilot platform from Windows 11, but it requires administrator privileges.
This option will appear in the Group Policy Editor, and the following steps must be taken: "Control Panel" → "Local Group Policy Editor" → "User Configuration" → "Administrative Templates" → "Windows Components" → "Windows AI" → "Remove Microsoft Copilot".
But the most challenging part is fulfilling Microsoft's list of conditions, which includes having Microsoft 365 Copilot and Microsoft Copilot applications, with the latter not installed by the user and not running for 28 days. This is particularly difficult because Copilot is enabled by default at Windows login, and it can also be accidentally opened by touching the Copilot button or key combination, after which the 28-day countdown will start over.
Windows 11 Home users have it the worst: it is technically impossible for them to disable Copilot.
In summary, Microsoft has formally given users the option to disable Copilot, but in practice, it is almost impossible to do so.
Source: Microsoft
