Microsoft Leverages Windows 11 Installation Time to Promote Copilot During Specific Updates

In a recent turn of events, Microsoft has introduced an intriguing feature in Windows 11 that incorporates its Copilot assistant during the installation phase. This integration was discovered just a week after reports indicated that Microsoft was scaling back its Copilot offerings. Users can now interact with Copilot without the necessity of a Microsoft account while their system is being set up.

Windows authority Rafael Rivera first revealed this feature during a Windows 11 update. He shared snapshots on X, showcasing an “Explore Copilot on Windows”panel alongside the progress of the installation. A standout element is a blue “Try now”button that, when clicked, opens the Copilot chat interface, allowing for a preview of its functionalities.

Button to try out Copilot in OOBE, while Windows is installing updates in the background — Source: Rafael Rivera via X

For a bit of context, the Out of Box Experience (OOBE) in Windows is already rich with promotional content, with panels displaying features like OneDrive file saving and offers for a Microsoft 365 trial. The latest addition of Copilot, however, stands out with its interactive chat experience.

Copilot Activation During Windows Updates

It’s important to note that Copilot is not available during a standard Windows installation. Instead, this AI assistant appears exclusively when the setup process (OOBE) coincides with an update.

Understanding Windows OOBE

The Out of Box Experience (OOBE) is essential for configuring your Windows system upon first use. Here, users set their language and region, connect to networks, create accounts, and view promotional content. This is also when Windows pauses to check for updates before proceeding to the desktop, which may include:

Essential firmware updates from the manufacturer (such as BIOS/UEFI and drivers).
Cumulative updates that ensure the installation media is up to date, enhancing system performance.
Feature enablement packages that activate hidden features within Windows.

In situations where an update is necessary, expect around 30 minutes of additional wait time for downloads and installations. The new Copilot integration appears geared to keep users engaged during this delay.

Using Copilot Without an MSA

During the OOBE process, Windows checks for updates prior to signing in, allowing users access to Copilot even without a Microsoft account. Users can explore Copilot’s capabilities, revealing an interface that closely resembles the standard Copilot application.

By clicking the “Try now”button, users are taken to the familiar Copilot chat interface, which displays several AI features along the left sidebar. This streamlined interaction occurs while Windows is actively installing.

You can chat with Copilot in OOBE while Windows is installing updates — Source: Rafael Rivera via X

Interactions with Copilot include chatting and even generating images, similar to its typical functionalities. Interestingly, since the Copilot app functions as a web wrapper, it shouldn’t significantly burden system resources during the installation process.

Alongside the Copilot interface, users can view the progress of installation updates. Once the updates complete, the “Back”button allows them to restart their PC, while continued interaction with Copilot is still possible.

Copilot in OOBE after update has finished installing — Source: Rafael Rivera via X

Microsoft appears to be strategically encouraging users to try Copilot while waiting for their PC updates to finish, possibly aiming to boost user engagement with the AI assistant when they return to the desktop.

Currently, unlike the outdated Cortana AI assistant that was integrated into Windows 10 installations, Copilot does not part of standard installations or updates. Cortana’s earlier presence required users to interact with it during setup, a feature that drew mixed reactions during its time.

While Microsoft is likely aware that many users may not welcome the Copilot feature within OOBE, the company’s efforts to encourage interaction with the AI highlight a push to innovate how users engage with technology during setup.

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