Windows 11 Update Accidentally Disables Copilot Feature
Issue with Windows 11 Copilot App
Microsoft has acknowledged that a recent Windows update unintentionally uninstalled the Copilot app from various Windows 11 devices. This issue emerged following the March 11 Patch Tuesday update, causing the AI-powered assistant to be removed from the taskbar as well.
Microsoft’s Response
In a support document, Microsoft confirmed, “We’re aware of an issue with the Microsoft Copilot app affecting some devices. The app is unintentionally uninstalled and unpinned from the taskbar.” The company reassured users that they are actively working on a solution. As an interim measure, affected users are advised to reinstall the app from the Microsoft Store and manually pin it back to the taskbar.
Cumulative Updates Involved
This glitch is related to the cumulative updates KB5053598 (Windows 24H2) and KB5053606 (Windows 10 22H2), which were part of this month’s security enhancements. However, Microsoft has not yet clarified the reason behind this bug or updated its Windows release health dashboard, where it usually reports on known issues.
History of Similar Issues
In June 2024, a similar problem occurred when an update for Microsoft Edge accidentally installed the Copilot app on some Windows systems. At that time, Microsoft clarified that the installation was part of preparations for future integrations of the Copilot app and did not involve any user data collection.
Copilot Enhancements
Recently, Microsoft has been working on an upgraded version of Copilot for Windows. This update includes a new user interface and a voice interaction feature that allows users to engage with the app by pressing the Alt + Spacebar keys. Further improvements are anticipated to be announced at a special event on April 4, celebrating the company’s 50th anniversary.
Additional Microsoft Issues
The unintended removal of the Copilot app is part of a larger series of problems affecting Microsoft services. The company has also reported issues concerning Citrix components, which are preventing some devices from successfully completing security updates released in January 2025. Users on ARM devices have experienced challenges downloading and playing Roblox from the Microsoft Store, with a resolution still in progress. Affected users can temporarily reinstall the Copilot app as they await an official fix.
Microsoft’s AI Development Focus
Recent reports indicate that Microsoft is actively developing its own AI reasoning models to lessen dependency on OpenAI. According to The Information, the company is assessing models from xAI, Meta, and DeepSeek for potential integration with its Copilot app. Under the direction of Mustafa Suleyman, Microsoft’s AI division is working on a project called MAI, which aims to create models that can compete with leading AI systems. This strategy seeks to diversify Microsoft’s AI capabilities while also reducing operational costs.
