Microsoft Begins Phasing Out Copilot Buttons in Windows 11 Applications

Microsoft is beginning to eliminate “unnecessary” Copilot buttons from its Windows 11 applications. In the latest update for the Notepad app available to Windows Insiders, the Copilot button has been replaced with a “writing tools” menu. Similarly, the Copilot button in the Snipping Tool no longer appears when selecting an area to capture.

This adjustment is part of a broader initiative to streamline Windows 11 by reducing unnecessary Copilot entry points, starting with apps like Snipping Tool, Photos, Widgets, and Notepad. While the buttons are being phased out, the underlying AI features are expected to remain intact.

The Copilot button’s removal from Notepad means that while the writing tools are still powered by AI, they maintain the same menu of options as before. Although I find these features somewhat excessive for a simple text app, eliminating the redundant Copilot branding is a positive move.

Now, I’m curious to see if Microsoft will also eliminate the Copilot button from laptop keyboards or take further steps to remove other unnecessary Copilot buttons that have been integrated into various areas of Windows 11 in recent months.