March 23, 2026 Microsoft is reducing how Copilot appears across core Windows apps, including Notepad, Snipping Tool, Photos and Widgets, as part of a shift toward performance and usability. The move signals a recalibration of its AI strategy after widespread expansion of Copilot across Windows 11 drew user criticism.
The company said it will be “more intentional” about where Copilot is integrated, focusing on more useful features. As written in a statement by the company: “You will see us be more intentional about how and where Copilot integrates across Windows, focusing on experiences that are genuinely useful and well-crafted.”
As part of that change, Microsoft confirmed it is removing or reducing what it described as unnecessary Copilot entry points in several built-in applications.
Copilot had rapidly expanded across Windows 11 over recent months, appearing in apps such as Notepad, Paint, Photos and Microsoft Edge. In Notepad, for example, users could highlight text to generate summaries or rewrites, alongside prompts to upgrade to Copilot or Microsoft 365 services.
It remains unclear whether Copilot will be fully removed from certain apps or simply scaled back. Microsoft has not ruled out keeping AI features where they serve a clear purpose, and Notepad itself is expected to continue evolving with additional capabilities such as image support and markdown, which can be disabled in settings.
The adjustment also includes potential changes to branding. Microsoft is reportedly considering reducing the visibility of the Copilot name across some features, alongside a broader emphasis on system performance.
Alongside the Copilot changes, the company said it will prioritise improvements to Windows 11’s core experience. The plan is to make the operating system start faster, respond more quickly and perform better under real workloads, with updates expected in the coming months.
