* Windows Central article
Microsoft quietly scraps plans to bring Copilot to notifications and Settings on Windows 11 as it moves to reduce AI bloat across the OS
https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft/windows-11/microsoft-quietly-scraps-plans-to-bring-copilot-to-notifications-and-settings-on-windows-11-as-it-moves-to-reduce-ai-bloat-across-the-os
Part of the article content was translated by GPT-5.4 Thinking.
Microsoft has shelved plans to launch several AI features branded as Copilot for Windows 11, which were initially announced alongside Copilot Plus PC in 2024. These features were originally intended to integrate Copilot into various system-level UIs such as the Settings app, notifications, and File Explorer.
These features were briefly demonstrated by Microsoft EVP Yusuf Mehdi on stage, and he confirmed that they would begin rolling out from late that year. However, 2024 has passed, and these features have not even appeared in preview. Almost two years have passed since their announcement, and there is still no movement.
According to sources, the plan to use Copilot as a comprehensive term for AI in Windows was pushed back shortly after the launch of Windows Recall was delayed. As Microsoft became preoccupied with resolving issues related to Recall functionality, several other AI features under development were effectively put on hold. [...omitted...]
[Explanation] The 'Copilot Suggestions' feature was expected to be added to Windows 11 notifications in 2024, but it has not yet been implemented.
According to company insiders familiar with the plans, the company is moving towards reducing excessive AI elements across Windows 11 this year and taking a more cautious approach to where the Copilot brand and AI experiences will appear in system apps and interfaces. This is part of a broader strategy to address user criticism and concerns that Windows 11 has become unnecessarily heavy and cluttered due to AI.
This does not mean that Microsoft is removing all AI features from the operating system (OS). However, users will feel that the company is taking a more conscious and cautious approach to where these elements are placed. While they will still remain in necessary or most useful locations, these features are expected to become optional and capable of being deactivated.
Microsoft hopes that people will view Windows 11 more positively and believes that reducing AI-related functionality across the OS will be helpful.
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