A new Windows 11 preview build indicates that Microsoft may soon expand Copilot’s presence inside File Explorer. Testers have spotted a hidden button in recent Insider builds that appears to be linked to Copilot functionality.
The button was first noticed by a Windows Insider tester and is currently not visible or usable by default. While inactive, its placement suggests tighter Copilot integration directly within File Explorer rather than routing interactions through the standalone Copilot app.
If enabled in future builds, the button could allow users to ask Copilot to locate specific files, identify document types, or navigate large folders using natural language queries. This would keep the interaction inside File Explorer instead of opening a separate Copilot window.
Copilot is already partially integrated into File Explorer through the context menu. Right-clicking a file and selecting “Ask Copilot” launches the Copilot app and passes the file as context. The newly discovered button appears intended to streamline that workflow by embedding AI interaction directly into the file management interface.
File Explorer search has long been criticized for slow performance and inconsistent results, especially on systems with large file collections or incomplete indexing. A context-aware AI assistant could theoretically improve discovery by interpreting intent rather than relying solely on filenames and metadata.
Microsoft has been steadily expanding Copilot across Windows 11, integrating it into the taskbar, Settings, system prompts, and Microsoft 365 apps. Many of these additions are system-level and cannot be fully removed once installed, which has drawn criticism from users who prefer a more traditional desktop experience.
At this stage, there is no confirmation that the File Explorer Copilot button will ship to stable builds. Features spotted in preview builds are often experimental and may be changed or removed before public release. Microsoft has not commented on the finding or outlined any plans for Copilot-based file management.
What are your thoughts on the integration of Copilot deeper into Windows?
Summary
Windows 11 Leak Suggests Copilot Is Moving Deeper Into File Explorer
Description
A Windows 11 preview build hints at deeper Copilot integration in File Explorer through a new in-app button.
Author
Arthur K
Ghacks Technology News
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