Microsoft Resolves Windows Update Issue That Removed Copilot
Microsoft Patch Fixes Copilot Bug
Microsoft recently addressed a significant bug that caused the AI-driven Copilot digital assistant to be unintentionally uninstalled from several Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices. This issue emerged after the release of cumulative updates for March 2025.
Update Details
The bug was linked to two specific updates released on Patch Tuesday:
- KB5053598 for Windows 11 (24H2)
- KB5053606 for Windows 10 (22H2)
Shortly after these updates, Microsoft acknowledged the issue, stating it was affecting multiple devices. Their support documents revealed that the Copilot app was being unintentionally removed and unpinned from users’ taskbars. Microsoft clarified that this issue was exclusive to the Copilot app and not applicable to the Microsoft 365 Copilot application.
Fixes and Immediate Solutions
Fortunately, Microsoft has resolved the bug in their latest advisories, asserting that affected devices would return to their previous state. However, users who would prefer immediate action can reinstall the Copilot app through the Microsoft Store and pin it back to their taskbar manually.
Lack of Communication
Despite the resolution, Microsoft has not fully explained why the Copilot app was removed in the first place. Additionally, the issue is yet to be reflected on the Windows release health dashboard, where users typically find updates about ongoing problems with Windows.
Introduction of Copilot
Copilot made its debut in September 2023 and is now a standard feature on Windows 11 devices. A month later, Microsoft extended the availability of Copilot to certain non-managed Windows 10 22H2 systems.
Previous Issues
Earlier in June 2024, Microsoft retracted a version of the Copilot app that had been mistakenly installed through faulty updates from Microsoft Edge. During that time, Microsoft reassured users that the wrongly added app did not transmit any data to their servers and was only there to prepare devices for future Copilot capabilities.
Months prior to that, some Windows Server 2025 preview versions also received Copilot, but Microsoft removed it after complaints from Windows administrators about its unnecessary presence.
Recent Enhancements
In the recent months leading up to March 2025, Microsoft has been actively enhancing the Copilot experience. They began rolling out a new native Copilot app to Windows Insiders through the Microsoft Store. An exciting feature introduced is the "press to talk" functionality, allowing users to interact with Copilot using their voice by pressing the Alt + Spacebar.
Quick Summary of Copilot Features
- Native Integration: Copilot is now integrated into Windows 11 by default.
- Voice Interaction: Users can speak to Copilot using a new voice command feature.
- Enhanced Accessibility: Users can manually reinstall the app if it is unintentionally removed.
This focus on eliminating bugs and enhancing user experience illustrates Microsoft’s commitment to refining Copilot as a valuable tool for Windows users.
