Microsoft has begun rolling out a significant update to the Copilot app on Windows via the Microsoft Store, introducing a new hands-free experience with the "Hey, Copilot!" wake word. This feature allows users to seamlessly initiate conversations with Copilot Voice, adding one more way to interact with the AI assistant.
With this update, Windows Insiders can now enable the "Hey, Copilot!" feature in the app's settings. Once activated, users can invoke Copilot by simply saying the phrase "Hey, Copilot!" followed by their query, such as "Hey, Copilot, what is the weather in Palm Springs this weekend?"
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The Copilot microphone will appear on-screen, accompanied by a chime to confirm that the assistant is listening. To conclude the conversation, users can either tap the 'X' button or allow the session to end automatically after a brief period of inactivity, confirmed by an ending chime.
Key Features and Functionality
- Hands-Free Interaction: The "Hey, Copilot!" feature enables users to stay productive without interrupting their workflow, making it ideal for quick inquiries or brainstorming ideas.
- Ease of Use: The wake word functionality is designed to be straightforward and accessible, ensuring a seamless user experience.
- Localized Processing: The wake word is detected using an on-device audio buffer , ensuring privacy. Audio is only sent to the cloud once the wake word is recognized and a conversation is initiated.
- Opt-In Requirement: The feature is not enabled by default. Users must activate it within the Copilot app settings under Voice mode by toggling the option "Listen for 'Hey, Copilot' to start a conversation."
The "Hey, Copilot!" feature works by detecting the wake word locally using a 10-second audio buffer, which is neither recorded nor stored. Once activated, the Copilot Voice Floating UI appears with a chime or voice response. The microphone indicator will show when the feature is active, even if the app is minimized or running in the background. While wake word recognition operates offline, establishing a Copilot Voice conversation requires an internet connection for cloud processing. Currently, the feature supports English exclusively and is being rolled out gradually to Windows Insiders with their display language set to English.
Availability and Rollout
This update (version 1.25051.10.0 and higher) is being distributed to Windows Insiders across all channels via the Microsoft Store. Initially, the "Hey, Copilot!" feature will be available to users with their Windows display language set to English. As part of a gradual rollout, not all Insiders will receive the update simultaneously.
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