When using Windows 11, a new context menu entry labeled “Ask Copilot” may appear when you right-click on files or images. This feature enables the direct upload of selected items to the Copilot app, where you can engage with its AI capabilities. However, if you prefer not to see this option cluttering your context menu, there’s a straightforward way to remove it by modifying the Windows Registry.
Microsoft initially tested the integration of Copilot into the right-click menu in March 2024 but later paused it as they transitioned Copilot away from a web app concept to a fully native application. As such, the inclusion of the “Ask Copilot” option in the context menu is a recent change as highlighted by Windows Latest, now available for users on the Dev Channel with Copilot app version 1.25044.93.0.
In the image above, you can see how “Ask Copilot” integrates into the right-click options in File Explorer. Selecting this feature uploads the item to the Copilot app, enabling you to inquire about the file’s content.
Many users question the necessity of this addition since the Copilot app allows manual uploads. It seems that Microsoft is pushing for greater interaction with the app, leading to the integration within multiple entry points.
If you want to eliminate the “Ask Copilot” option from your context menu, there are two routes: uninstalling the Copilot app or modifying the context menu through the Registry Editor. Below, you’ll find a detailed guide on how to accomplish the latter.
Guide to Remove “Ask Copilot” from Windows 11 Context Menu
Follow these detailed steps to successfully remove the ‘Ask Copilot’ feature from your right-click context menu:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box, then type
regeditand hit Enter to access the Windows Registry. - Navigate to the following path:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Shell Extensions\Blocked - In the right pane, right-click and select New > String Value to create a new entry.
- Set the name of the string value to:
{CB3B0003-8088-4EDE-8769-8B354AB2FF8C} - Update the newly created entry’s value to Ask Copilot.
- Close the Registry Editor once you’ve made the changes.
Once completed, you can either restart the File Explorer or your computer, and the “Ask Copilot” option will be removed from the right-click context menu.
Currently, this feature’s context menu integration is being rolled out through a Microsoft Store update to Windows 11 users in the Dev Channel. Note that while you might not see ‘Ask Copilot’ yet, it should roll out shortly across all channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can removing “Ask Copilot” cause issues with other features in Windows 11?
No, removing the “Ask Copilot” option will not affect other features in Windows 11. It will only prevent that specific context menu option from appearing.
2. Is it safe to modify the Windows Registry?
Yes, modifying the Windows Registry is safe as long as you follow instructions carefully. It’s recommended to create a backup of the registry before making changes.
3. What should I do if I accidentally delete the wrong registry entry?
If you delete the wrong registry entry, you can restore it from a backup if you created one beforehand. If not, you can try reinstalling related software or consider system restore options.
Leave a Reply ▼