Microsoft Enhances Copilot Plus PC Capabilities for AMD and Intel Processors
Microsoft Expands Copilot Plus Features
Microsoft is enhancing its Copilot Plus features for PC users by broadening support to include a variety of devices. This extension now covers not only Qualcomm-powered systems but also AMD Ryzen AI 300 series and Intel Core Ultra 200V processors.
New Tools and Features
With this update, several advanced tools are now available to more users. Among these are:
- Live Captions
- Cocreator in Paint
- Restyle Image
- Image Creator
Another beneficial addition includes improved Voice Access capabilities, which will initially roll out on Snapdragon X Series devices, with plans to extend to other systems later this year.
Live Captions
The Live Captions feature, which was previously confined to Snapdragon X Series devices, is now available for Copilot Plus PCs powered by AMD and Intel. This tool provides real-time English captions for spoken content during video calls, podcasts, and media playback. Moreover, Microsoft is working to add support for more languages, including Simplified Chinese, in the near future.
Cocreator in Paint
Cocreator has now made its way to Copilot Plus PCs that utilize AMD and Intel processors. This feature integrates AI tools for digital art within the Paint app. Users can create visuals by combining freehand sketches with text descriptions. This allows for the creation of intricate imagery, custom designs, and polished artwork.
Enhancements in Windows Photos App
The Windows Photos app is also receiving two significant AI-enhanced features:
- Restyle Image: This feature transforms standard photos into artistic versions, offering a range of styles such as oil paintings and contemporary sketches.
- Image Creator: This tool generates images based on text input, making it perfect for those interested in creating personalized artwork, marketing collateral, or engaging storytelling visuals.
These new features require users to update their Paint and Photos applications through the Microsoft Store.
Improved Voice Access
For users with Copilot Plus PCs featuring Snapdragon X Series processors, the Voice Access feature is getting an upgrade. This improved version allows for more natural speech interactions, moving away from rigid command requirements. Users will now have the freedom to phrase commands more flexibly. Later in the year, this upgrade will be extended to devices powered by AMD and Intel. Notably, this update also marks the first time Voice Access will utilize the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) in Copilot Plus PCs.
Installation and Availability
The latest Copilot Plus features will be included in the upcoming March 2025 non-security preview update for Windows. To take advantage of these enhancements, users must first ensure their systems have the November 2024 non-security preview update installed. Microsoft will release these features gradually through its controlled feature rollout (CFR) system. Eligible users can opt in for early access by selecting "Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available" under Settings > Windows Update and manually checking for updates.
By expanding these capabilities, Microsoft aims to enhance the user experience significantly, making tools that were once limited to certain devices available to a broader audience.
