Microsoft unveiled the revamped standalone Copilot app for Windows 11 at this year’s Build 2024 event, and it’s now rolling out to testers – and some of those testers have noticed striking similarities between the app and AI rival ChatGPT.
The Copilot app (which was previously rumored, and even spotted (sort of) in one version of Windows) is present build 26100 in the Release Preview channel, which is the final step before the final version of Windows 11 is released. In fact, this is the preview version of the Windows 11 24H2 update coming later this year.
The new app is no longer an anchored side panel on the desktop, but a full app in a window, allowing you to move and resize the AI assistant as needed, just like any other app. The Copilot icon is also now located in the center of the Windows 11 taskbar, instead of on the far right of the system tray.
That certainly means a lot more flexibility for Copilot and how you might want to use the AI, but some users testing the new app are noticing something else: that the revamped Copilot interface resembles ChatGPT in a few ways.
If Windows Latest Notes: The similarities include the menu on the left that shows previous chats, in addition to the general ‘vibe’ of the new Copilot app.
Familiar territory
Other than the fact that Copilot has the chat bar in the middle of the app panel, and maybe a splash of color, there isn’t really much difference between the two AI-powered chatbots. However, Microsoft cannot be entirely blamed for imitating the layout of the iconic ChatGPT, as many other ChatGPT alternatives have adopted the same layout style, making it easy for users to familiarize themselves with the newer apps.
Think about how easy it is for you to navigate most social media apps on your phone. They all have a similar layout, so even if you’ve only just joined a new one, you can find your way around before learning more. intricate details. That said, I do think Microsoft could have done a little better here by trying to come up with its own style, but the app is still being tested within the Windows Insider program, so perhaps the design will undergo further tweaks before the public release. .
If you want to try out the new Copilot app, you should be part of it Windows Insider Testing Program. Joining is quite easy, and once you’re signed in you’ll have access not only to the Copilot app, but also to other updates and features that Microsoft is trying out in previews.
Keep a few things in mind though: test builds of Windows 11 aren’t something you want to use on your main PC (as there’s a higher chance of something going wrong, so don’t take any chances in that regard). Also keep in mind that just because a feature appeared in testing doesn’t mean it will be eligible for release in the final version of Windows 11 used by everyone.