Microsoft Unveils New Copilot and Agentic Features in Response to Google’s Windows Search App

In the latest chapter of the rivalry between Microsoft and Google, Microsoft is stepping up its game in response to Google’s newly launched search app for Windows. The tech giant aims to transform every Windows 11 PC into a fully operational AI PC by rolling out comprehensive Copilot and agentic features.

Introducing Copilot: Your Interactive Assistant

Windows 11 laptop with on-screen widgets and the text Meet the computer you can talk to. — Wake Up Copilot With A Simple Voice Command

According to Microsoft, voice commands are the most intuitive method for users to engage with Copilot, its AI-powered assistant designed specifically for Windows. The rollout includes new “wake”and “goodbye”commands for Copilot:

Users can opt-in to enable voice activation by adjusting settings in the Copilot app.
To initiate a conversation, simply say “Hey, Copilot…” followed by your inquiry.
Copilot will signal its readiness by displaying a microphone icon and a chime indicating it is listening.
End conversations by saying “Goodbye” or tapping “X.”
If there is no interaction for a designated period, Copilot will automatically conclude the conversation.

Copilot Vision: Enhanced Interaction

Microsoft has recently expanded its Copilot Vision feature, now available across all markets. This functionality significantly enhances user engagement:

With Copilot Vision, users can permit the assistant to access their desktop or specific applications, enabling it to provide real-time feedback and insights.
Copilot can visually guide users through tasks by highlighting where to click or what steps to take within supported applications.
When users share documents like Word, Excel, or PowerPoint with Copilot Vision, the assistant analyzes the entire file, not just the visible portions.
Excitingly, Windows Insiders will soon have the ability to chat with Copilot Vision via text, further enriching the interaction experience.

Innovative Copilot Actions and Connectors

Copilot sidebar on a desktop shows file search results including Veterinary Records and Vaccination records 2025 in OneDrive.

Following the successful introduction of Copilot Actions on the web, Microsoft is now integrating direct actions for local files, making it available to Windows Insiders via Copilot Labs.
- This feature empowers Copilot to handle tasks like organizing photo collections or extracting data from PDF documents.
Furthermore, the new Copilot Connectors allow users to connect popular services such as OneDrive, Gmail, and Google Calendar, enabling seamless cross-platform functionality.
- This advancement means Copilot can recall personal information, such as dentist appointments, and present it effortlessly.
- Users can request Copilot to export text directly to Word, Excel, or PowerPoint, streamlining project tasks.

Introducing AI Agents for Enhanced Productivity

Copilot setup screen for Experimental agentic features with options to Cancel or Open Settings.

Meet Manus: The New AI Agent

Microsoft presents Manus, an advanced AI agent designed to tackle various tasks on Windows 11 PCs. This versatile assistant excels at executing complex operations swiftly.

Available as a native app on Windows, Manus utilizes the Model Context Protocol to access necessary files and construct a website in just a few clicks.

AI Actions in File Explorer

With a simple right-click on files, users can select ‘AI Actions’ to perform quick tasks, like document summarization and image editing.
The Image Actions feature supports.jpg, .jpeg, and.png files.
- Users can leverage Bing Visual Search to discover similar images or products.
- Quickly edit images by blurring backgrounds or removing unwanted objects using the Photos App.

Gaming Features: Your Personal Gaming Companion

ROG gaming device with Sea of Thieves on screen and instructions for using Gaming Copilot feature displayed.

Introducing Gaming Copilot

Microsoft has debuted a personal gaming assistant that integrates seamlessly with the Game Bar on Windows 11.

With the voice mode, users can ask Gaming Copilot for assistance with specific games in real time.
Additionally, players can request game recommendations or inquire about their achievements and gameplay history.

Accessing Xbox on PC

The Xbox PC app has been updated for a more comprehensive gaming experience, allowing easy access to libraries, applications, and progress history.

Games installed from supported storefronts will automatically populate in “My Library” within the Xbox PC app.
Your cloud-playable games and gameplay history will now be synchronized across all respective devices.

Source & Images