This feature makes Copilot feel like your personal AI assistant — here's how to test it

Copilot Vision for Windows announcement
Copilot Vision is a powerful new feature that allows Copilot to analyze the contents of an app. (Image credit: Microsoft)

Windows Insiders can now test the two highly anticipated features for Copilot on Windows. This week, Microsoft began rolling out an update for the Copilot app that adds support for improved file search and Copilot Vision.

Copilot Vision and improved search were among the many features announced during Microsoft's 50th anniversary Copilot event.

Once the update rolls out to your PC, you'll be able to ask Copilot questions about files on your device. File search supports a range of file types and can read .docx, .xlsx, .pptx, .txt, .pdf, and .json files according to Microsoft.

Improved file search through Copilot allows you to use natural language to find files. Microsoft shared the example of asking, "Open the trip planning doc I was working on last week."

You can adjust which files Copilot can access to ensure privacy.

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With Copilot Vision, you can share any browser or app window with Copilot. The AI companion can then analyze the contents of a shared window.

For example, Copilot Vision could guide you through Minecraft as you play. The feature can also give you advice on how to use apps to accomplish certain tasks.

Initially, Copilot Vision was limited to Microsoft Edge, but it now supports other apps.

To activate the feature, click the glasses icon in Copilot. You then need to select which window you'd like Copilot Vision to analyze. Once you've finished, you can press 'Stop' or 'X' to stop Copilot Vision.

To use improved search or Copilot Vision, you need to be running Copilot version 1.25034.133.0 or higher. Windows Insiders in the United States will be the first to see Copilot Vision.

You do not need to have a Copilot+ PC to use Copilot on Windows or the new features rolling out to Windows Insiders.

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Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_. 

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