Microsoft U-turns on Copilot update after Windows 11 users blast 'infuriating' feature

Microsoft has backing down on a controversial change to its Copilot assistant.The Redmond-based firm recently added a button for its Artificial Intelligence (AI) assistant Copilot, which hovers in the bottom-right corner of its Office apps. The new location was designed to make it easier to summon the AI helper, which is designed to act as a “copilot” for your work — hence the name — by jumping in to draft documents, analyse spreadsheet data, summarise calls, generate images, and automate routine tasks.But the shake-up didn't go down well with Microsoft Office users, who complained the new floating Copilot button in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint was getting in the way. One frustrated user didn't hold back on the Microsoft Feedback portal, writing: Please get rid of the floating Copilot icon at the bottom right of my Excel screen, or give me a way to turn it off. I do not want, nor need, Copilot in any capacity. Its presence is infuriating.Another user called it a horrible upgrade and pleaded with Microsoft to provide a way to turn it off.Thankfully for those who complained, it seems like someone at Microsoft was listening as the company is letting everyone shift the Copilot button back to the traditional ribbon at the top of the screen.Microsoft confirmed the change in a blog post: We’ve been working to make Microsoft 365 feel more connected and integrated with Copilot, available as a helpful thought partner, when you need it.We recently updated Word, Excel and PowerPoint with a consolidated, more visible entry point (Dynamic Action Button) at the bottom right of the apps that suggests actions from Copilot based on your document. You may have noticed similar entry points in other apps across Microsoft 365, all with access to the same Copilot. As we continue to thoughtfully and intentionally shape how Copilot integrates with the tried-and-true workflows within Word, Excel and PowerPoint that you rely on, we’re listening, learning and improving as we go. To that end, we're already making a few updates based on feedback.The fix gives you three options — keep the floating button, dock it to the side, or move it back to the ribbon entirely. You'll need to right-click the Copilot icon to choose your preference.LATEST DEVELOPMENTSFreely isn't available on your LG or Samsung TV, but there's a workaroundGoogle's new Gemini Spark AI can manage your Gmail and make purchases for youGoogle Chrome will soon let you stop being tricked by AI and deepfakes10 exciting new Android 17 features confirmed by GoogleBest VPN dealsSo why did Microsoft push ahead with this floating button in the first place? Only around 3.3 of Microsoft 365 users actually pay for Copilot, the company confirmed in an earnings call — so adoption has fallen well short of what the company hoped to achieve.To boost engagement, Microsoft started rolling out what it called the Copilot Dynamic Action Button last December, expanding it further this year.The U-turn comes after the company decided to scale back on the AI assistant in other areas, too. While Microsoft has been supercharging Copilot across its Office apps like mentioned above, it’s taking a very different approach with Windows 11’s built-in tools like NotePad and Snipping Tool. This follows a promise Microsoft made earlier this year, when the company said it would reduce “unnecessary Copilot entry points” across Windows 11— the latest operating system for your device.Microsoft explains in a statement: 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.Despite these changes, Microsoft is pressing ahead with plans to add AI agents to the Windows taskbar as an optional feature. Instead of opening apps manually, your computer has AI-powered assistants (“agents”) sitting right on the taskbar, ready to:answer questionsautomate tasksinteract with your files and appsact on your behalfIt could be a great addition if you want to minimise how many windows you have open at once, keeping your desktop more organised.This feature is still being tested before it rolls out to everyone. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter