Summary of "Hands-On Windows 127: The 2 Copilot Apps in Windows 11"

Podcast Information:

• Title: All TWiT.tv Shows (Audio)
• Host: Paul Thurrott
• Episode: Hands-On Windows 127: The 2 Copilot Apps in Windows 11
• Release Date: February 13, 2025
• Description: Leo Laporte brings some of the most interesting personalities in technology together to talk about the most important issues. Fun, relaxed, informative, and always entertaining, count on TWiT for the best tech podcasts in the world.

Introduction

In the February 13, 2025 episode of "Hands-On Windows," host Paul Thurrott dives into the intriguing development within Windows 11: the introduction of two distinct Copilot applications. This expansion raises questions about their unique functionalities, intended user bases, and the rationale behind Microsoft’s decision to implement dual Copilot systems.

The Original Copilot App

Evolution and Challenges

Paul Thurrott begins by recounting his experiences with the original Copilot app introduced in late 2023. Initially, the app presented significant usability challenges, such as being non-resizable and persistently docked to the side of the screen. Over the next year, Microsoft made numerous adjustments to the app's design and functionality:

• Resizing and Floating Capability: "It was non resizable, but then it became resizable and then you could turn it into a floating window" (00:17).
• Integration Fluctuations: Features like Windows command integrations were periodically added and removed.
• App Icon Instability: "The app icon moved four times. It was here, it was there, it was everywhere" (04:00).

Despite these changes, the original Copilot remained a native app wrapper around a web-based interface, limiting its effectiveness and consistency. Thurrott summarizes, “It's a native app wrap around a web app” (05:15), highlighting the inherent limitations of the approach.

Functionality and Use Cases

The original Copilot serves as a general-purpose AI assistant akin to ChatGPT, integrated directly into the Windows environment. Key functionalities include:

• Quick View Mode: Activated via a configurable keyboard shortcut (default Alt + Space), allowing users to interact with Copilot without leaving their current task.
• Information Retrieval: Users can ask for recipes, travel itineraries, workout programs, and even programming assistance, such as generating C code snippets.

Notable Quote:

"Copilot is one of many modern AI companions that are replacements for what we used to call personal digital assistants. Things like Cortana or Siri..." (02:50) – Paul Thurrott

Thurrott emphasizes the tool's versatility, especially for developers and power users, though he personally notes limited use outside specific tasks.

Transition to Microsoft 365 Copilot

Introduction of the Second Copilot App

Moving forward, Thurrott introduces the Microsoft 365 Copilot, previously known as the Office app. This app is designed to integrate deeply with Microsoft 365 services, offering enhanced features for both individual and corporate users.

Key Points:

• Name and Branding Changes: The renaming from Office to Microsoft 365 Copilot reflects a broader integration with the Microsoft ecosystem.
• Local App Integration: Unlike the original Copilot, the Microsoft 365 Copilot directly interacts with locally installed applications, providing a more seamless user experience. Thurrott notes, “It opens in the local version of the app, not the web version” (08:09).

Features of Microsoft 365 Copilot

Consumer Version

For individual users with Microsoft 365 subscriptions, the Microsoft 365 Copilot offers:

• AI Credits: Subscribers receive monthly AI credits to utilize Copilot’s advanced features.
• Chat Interface: A built-in chat interface that can interact with user data within Microsoft 365 applications.

Enterprise Version

For business and organizational users, the Microsoft 365 Copilot includes:

• Enterprise Data Protection: Ensures that all interactions and data handled by Copilot remain secure and within organizational boundaries. Thurrott explains, “Enterprise data protection is enabled” (09:32).
• Shared Workspaces: Features like shared chats and collaborative brainstorming sessions, where Copilot acts as a virtual team member assisting with tasks and projects.

Notable Quote:

"For people that are working in a business that is using Microsoft 365 for businesses, governments, educational institutions and so forth, the primary interface for Copilot is now going to be here." (09:32) – Paul Thurrott

Use Cases

• Document Creation and Editing: Assists in drafting, editing, and formatting documents within Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Collaboration: Facilitates teamwork by managing shared projects and documents, making collaborative efforts more efficient.
• Data Analysis: Helps interpret and visualize data within Excel, providing insights and recommendations based on the data.

Comparison and User Considerations

Thurrott contrasts the two Copilot apps, highlighting their distinct target audiences and functionalities:

• Original Copilot App: Best suited for individual users seeking a versatile AI assistant for everyday tasks and information retrieval.
• Microsoft 365 Copilot: Tailored for professional environments, offering robust tools for collaboration, data protection, and integration with Microsoft’s suite of productivity applications.

He advises users to evaluate their specific needs:

"If you have a Microsoft 365 personal or family subscription, you’ll get Copilot plus features that used to be paid only now available to everyone with a subscription." (14:30) – Paul Thurrott

Conclusion

Paul Thurrott wraps up the episode by reflecting on Microsoft's dynamic approach to developing Copilot applications. He underscores the importance of staying adaptable as these tools continue to evolve:

"Copilot has taught me anything, it's that nothing is ever the same and will ever stay the same." (14:30) – Paul Thurrott

He encourages listeners to explore both Copilot apps to fully leverage their capabilities, anticipating ongoing enhancements and feature additions in future updates.

Final Remarks

Thurrott concludes by promoting upcoming episodes of "Hands-On Windows" and inviting listeners to join Club TWiT for exclusive content and an ad-free experience. He emphasizes the value of staying informed through TWiT’s comprehensive coverage of technology trends and updates.

Note: Advertisements and non-content segments between [06:36] and [16:17] were excluded from this summary as per instructions.