Microsoft Tests Chat with Copilot Integration in Windows 11 File Explorer, Expanding Beyond Separate App

Microsoft is currently experimenting with an exciting feature that brings the Copilot functionality directly into the File Explorer environment of Windows 11. Unlike the previous ‘Ask Copilot’ button found in the right-click menu, this latest development suggests that Copilot will be embedded within File Explorer, potentially appearing in a sidebar or as a component of a Details/Preview-pane-style interface. This information has emerged from recent updates visible in Windows 11 preview builds.

Tech enthusiasts and Microsoft observers, notably @PhantomOfEarth and @a_donglee, have collaborated to uncover a newly identified “Chat with Copilot”option within the File Explorer interface.

According to @PhantomOfEarth’s confirmations to Windows Latest, the evidence appears to point to a more integrated “chat view”for Copilot in File Explorer, moving away from the traditional access via a separate application.

Current State of Copilot Integration in File Explorer

Until now, the Copilot function was accessible only in designated areas of File Explorer, falling short of true integration. Users could find the option to ‘Ask Copilot’ by right-clicking on files, which simply routed the file or image to the standalone Copilot application. This feature would vanish if the Copilot app were uninstalled.

Additionally, many users may have observed the ‘Ask Copilot’ toggle in the ‘Home’ tab of File Explorer. These toggles primarily functioned to launch either the Copilot or Microsoft 365 Copilot applications.

Future Integration of Copilot Directly Inside File Explorer

Recent updates in Windows 11, specifically Build 26220.7523, have revealed references to “AppAssistantLaunch, ” which is anticipated to facilitate Copilot’s deeper integration within File Explorer. Noteworthy components in the resources.pri for FileExplorerExtensions SystemApps point towards two key phrases: “Chat with Copilot” and “Detach Copilot.”

The significance of these findings is highlighted by the discovery of a hidden button tied to the internal name “AppAssistantLaunch, ” supported by specific string resources within FileExplorerExtensions.

In the related screenshot, the string identified as Resources. AppAssistantLaunchLabel suggests an interactive experience allowing users to engage in a Copilot chat directly from within Explorer, rather than launching a separate application.

The second reference to Resources. AppAssistantDetachLabel indicates the ability to “Detach Copilot.” This suggests that there will be an option to remove Copilot from its default position within File Explorer’s layout, allowing users to move it into a floating window if desired.

This approach is logical, as references indicating the ability to “Detach”imply that Copilot will indeed be integrated into the sidebar of File Explorer, differing from simply launching it as an independent app. If the intention was merely to open the Copilot application, terms like “Open Copilot” or “Launch Copilot” would be more appropriate.

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