Microsoft dubs Windows 11 PCs "the computer you can talk to” as it launches new agentic AI voice input mode that lets your PC do things for you

You'll have to enable Copilot Actions manually before you can use it. (Image credit: Microsoft)

The feature utilizes special agentic user accounts, along with its own desktop environment for the agent, where it can take your task and complete it without getting in your way. You'll be able to view the agents progress inside the Copilot app, and the assistant will prompt you to take action if something requires human intervention, like accessing sensitive information or dealing with an unexpected error prompt.

"Simply describe the task you want to complete in your own words, and the agent will attempt to complete it by interacting with desktop and web applications" says Microsoft Consumer Chief Marketing Office, Yusef Mehdi. "While this is happening, you can choose to focus on other tasks. At any time, you can take over the task or check in on the progress of the action, including reviewing what actions have been taken."

Alongside the new Copilot Actions framework, Microsoft is also promoting voice as a primary input method on Windows 11. It's introducing a new "Hey Copilot" wake word that launches into the Copilot Vision mode automatically, letting you chat with Copilot about whatever it is that's on your screen at any time, hands-free.

It's also more deeply integrating the Copilot experience into Windows 11 by adding Copilot to the Taskbar's search box, combining traditional Windows Search with AI chat capabilities, and making access to Copilot Vision and Copilot Actions just a click away at all times. Microsoft says it wants "to make the taskbar a dynamic hub that helps you accomplish more with less effort."