How to Disable Windows Copilot in Windows 11: A Quick Guide
Table of Contents
The recent Windows 11 September 2023 Update introduces a new feature, Windows Copilot, aiming to revolutionize the digital assistance landscape, akin to Cortana. Beyond being a simple digital assistant, it essentially brings Bing Chat to your Windows 11 desktop.
Accessing Windows Copilot
To engage with Windows Copilot, you can either click its icon on the taskbar or use the convenient Windows logo + C hotkey.
Exploring Windows Copilot’s Functionality
Once the Windows Copilot pane is activated, you can begin posing queries, and it retrieves answers from the vast realm of the internet.
Choosing Your Windows 11 Experience: To Copilot or Not?
While many users may appreciate the convenience of Windows Copilot, some may prefer not to use this feature. If you fall into the latter category and wish to remove the Copilot icon from your taskbar or disable the feature entirely, this guide is tailored for you.
Removing Copilot from the Taskbar
Note: Access to Windows Copilot remains possible through the Windows logo + C hotkey even after removing its icon from the taskbar. To eliminate Copilot, opt for Method 2 – Group Policy.
- Step 1: Navigate to Windows 11 Settings > Personalization > Taskbar page.
- Step 2: On the right side, click on Taskbar items to reveal additional options.
- Step 3: Toggle off the switch next to Copilot to remove its icon from the taskbar.
Alternative: Registry Editor Method
- Step 1: Open the Registry Editor by typing “Registry Editor” in the Start/taskbar search and press Enter.
- Step 2: Navigate to the key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced.
- Step 3: Look for ShowCopilotButton. If absent, create a new DWORD-32 Value named ShowCopilotButton. Double-click and set the value data to “0” to remove the Copilot icon from the Windows 11 taskbar.
Disabling Copilot via Group Policy (Not applicable to Windows 11 Home Edition)
- Step 1: Type “Edit group policy” in the taskbar/Start search and hit Enter to open the Local Group Policy Editor.
- Step 2: Navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Copilot.
- Step 3: Double-click “Turn off Windows Copilot” on the right side.
- Step 4: Select the Enabled option to disable Copilot and click Apply to save the change.
Windows Copilot is now successfully disabled. Access via the taskbar icon or Windows + C hotkey is no longer available.
Incorporate these steps into your Windows 11 experience to tailor it precisely to your preferences. Enjoy a Copilot-free desktop!
How can I access Windows Copilot on Windows 11?
You can access Windows Copilot either by clicking its icon on the taskbar or using the Windows logo + C hotkey.
Can I customize my Windows 11 experience by removing the Windows Copilot icon from the taskbar?
Yes, you can remove the Windows Copilot icon from the taskbar by navigating to Windows 11 Settings > Personalization > Taskbar and turning off the toggle button next to Copilot.
Is it possible to remove the Copilot icon via Registry Editor?
Yes, you can remove the Copilot icon from the taskbar using the Registry Editor by navigating to the key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced and set the value data of ShowCopilotButton to “0”.
What alternative method is available for disabling Copilot via Group Policy?
To disable Copilot via Group Policy, type “Edit group policy” in the taskbar/Start search, navigate to User configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Copilot, and double-click “Turn off Windows Copilot.”
Does the Group Policy method apply to Windows 11 Home Edition?
No, the Group Policy method does not apply to Windows 11 Home Edition as Local Group Policy is unavailable in the Home edition.
Can I still access Windows Copilot after removing its icon from the taskbar?
Yes, even after removing the icon, Windows Copilot can still be accessed using the Windows logo + C hotkey.
In conclusion
Mastering your Windows 11 experience involves understanding and managing the newly introduced Windows Copilot. Whether you appreciate its features or opt for a Copilot-free environment, this guide empowers you with options. By following simple steps, such as removing the icon from the taskbar or utilizing Registry Editor and Group Policy methods, you can tailor your desktop precisely to your preferences. Enjoy the freedom to customize and enhance your Windows 11 journey, ensuring a seamless and personalized computing experience. Navigate with ease, knowing you have the tools to make your digital workspace truly your own.
