Microsoft is transforming Windows into an “agentic OS” with new AI capabilities, including integrated taskbar agents and Copilot in the File Explorer. These AI agents can perform tasks, such as data research and file access, without users having to manually intervene.
The integration aims to make every user feel like they have “superpowers of AI,” according to corporate vice president Navjot Virk. Agents will be able to work independently in the background while you’re using your PC, with notifications when they need attention or complete tasks. Users can also hover over taskbar icons to see what agents are doing.
The new Ask Copilot feature combines local file search with Microsoft 365 Copilot capabilities. This integration is part of a broader effort to make AI more accessible and convenient for users.
In addition to the taskbar, Copilot will be integrated into File Explorer, allowing users to summarize documents, answer questions about files, or draft emails based on document content. Other features include Click To Do’s ability to convert tables into Excel documents and offline support in Windows 11.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/821948/microsoft-windows-11-ai-agents-taskbar-integration