- Copilot Actions on Windows 11 lets you tell your PC to perform multi-step workflows, such as organizing files or replying to emails, using natural language, text, or voice, using the “Hey Copilot” command.
- Microsoft will also be replacing the search box with Copilot for faster access to the agentic AI assistant.
Microsoft is taking the next step in its AI development with the introduction of Copilot Actions, a new feature powered by agentic AI that turns Copilot into a proactive assistant capable of acting on your behalf.
Instead of simply responding to commands, Copilot can now perform multi-step actions, automate workflows, and interact directly with system settings and apps across Windows 11.
This shift marks the beginning of a new AI chapter for the operating system, one where Copilot becomes the intelligent operator that manages your digital tasks seamlessly.
What are Copilot Actions?
Copilot Actions is a new agent that represents one of the elements of the company’s vision of agentic AI, artificial intelligence that not only assists but also acts and self-corrects to achieve complex goals without requiring manual guidance at every step.
On Windows 11, the feature is disabled by default. When you opt in, it connects to the Copilot app, allowing you to ask for actions to be performed on your behalf.
For instance, when you ask Copilot to “organize my files by categories,” it now automatically performs these actions without requiring you to open multiple menus or apps.
Copilot can adjust settings, open apps, clean temporary files, and find and manipulate your files, as well as perform other actions, such as replying to emails. All while keeping you in control of what it does.
How Copilot Actions work
Behind the scenes, Copilot Actions relies on the Windows automation APIs and contextual understanding to translate natural language into executable steps.
When you make a request, Copilot identifies the necessary apps and settings to complete the task and then executes those actions with your permission.
However, Copilot won’t get in the way while it’s processing tasks. Actually, it will have its own agentic account with a Windows 11 desktop environment. You’ll be able to view the agent’s progress through the Copilot app and take control if prompted for human interaction or if you want to complete the task yourself.
‘Hey Copilot’ voice command
Do you remember the “Hey Cortana” voice command assistant? Microsoft will try one more time the same voice input concept, but now with an AI-powered assistant. As a result, you can now use the “Hey Copilot” voice command to interact with the Copilot Vision experience, allowing you to engage with the chatbot using natural language voice commands hands-free.
Are you planning to have a conversation with the computer? Microsoft has tried before, but it didn’t work. However, the company believes this time will be different, as there is now more voice interaction with computers, thanks to video meetings and calls.
Taskbar with Copilot search
Finally, the company plans to replace the Windows Search box in the Taskbar with a new one that opens Copilot when performing a search, which combines the built-in system search with the chatbot.
These implementations will enable quick access to Copilot via voice commands, such as “Hey Copilot,” and through the new search box.
Since Copilot is powered by the AI capabilities available through the cloud, these new innovations will be coming to all Windows 11 devices, and they won’t be exclusive to Copilot+ PCs.
Microsoft doesn’t have a release date for these changes, but the company plans to roll them out gradually starting now and throughout the following months.
You can actually turn on Copilot Vision right now from the Copilot app settings. However, the new search box will be rolling out in future releases through the Windows Insider Program before it becomes available to everyone.
Also, remember that the current version of the Copilot app already has the capability for file search through the Copilot app settings. Also, you can use the Connectors feature to allow the chatbot to perform searches in OneDrive and Google services.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of Pureinfotech in 2010. With over 22 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.
Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.
Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.
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