On Windows 11, you can create a desktop shortcut to access the new Copilot experience more quickly, and in this guide, you will learn how. Although you can access the chatbot with the dedicated button in the Taskbar or using the “Windows key + C” keyboard shortcut, it’s also possible to access Copilot with a shortcut from the desktop.
This option can be useful if you remove the icon in the Taskbar but still want a quick way to access the experience. Or, in the case that you’re in one of the regions of the European Union (EU), and you still don’t have access to the feature because it’s not fully compliant with the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
Whatever the reason it might be, you can create quick access from the desktop using the “Shortcut” wizard on Windows 11 after version 23H2.
This guide will teach you the steps to create a shortcut to access Copilot on Windows 11.
Create shortcut to access Copilot on Windows 11
To create a shortcut to access Copilot on Windows 11, use these steps:
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Right-click on the desktop, select New, and choose the Shortcut option.
Quick note: Use File Explorer from the New menu and select the “Shortcut” option. -
Copy and paste the following command:
microsoft-edge://?ux=copilot&tcp=1&source=taskbar
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Click the Next button.
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Confirm a name for the shortcut. For example, “Copilot.”
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Click the Finish button.
Once you complete the steps, double-click the desktop shortcut to access the Copilot experience.
Additionally, you can change the shortcut’s icon by right-clicking the shortcut, choosing the “Properties” option, clicking the “Change Icon” button, and selecting the icon.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 21 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].