Microsoft is revamping its Copilot AI assistant on Windows, introducing a new native taskbar UI and keyboard shortcut to enhance the user experience. This update marks a significant shift from the previous Progressive Web App (PWA) version, which was rolled out earlier this year.

The new Copilot quick view floats above the taskbar, similar to Microsoft's Companion apps for files, contacts, and calendar entries. Users can trigger the quick view using the new Alt + Space keyboard shortcut or through the system tray. Although the quick view doesn't offer any groundbreaking features, it remains always on top until dismissed or triggered again using the shortcut.

However, the introduction of the Alt + Space shortcut may cause conflicts with other apps that utilize the same shortcut. Microsoft has acknowledged this issue, stating that Windows will register the app launched first in the background as the default app invoked when using Alt + Space. This could lead to a complicated situation, with multiple apps competing for control.

It's worth noting that Microsoft previously used the Windows key + C shortcut for Cortana with Windows Copilot, before downgrading the experience to a web app and abandoning the keyboard shortcut. The company's decision to move to Alt + Space is unclear, especially given its statement that "Copilot will continue to explore options related to the keyboard shortcuts for the app."

Despite Microsoft's insistence that Windows 10 will reach end-of-support in October 2025, the new Copilot features will be available on both Windows 10 and Windows 11 PCs. This move is seen as an effort to ensure users can extract maximum value from their current Windows PC, as the company reopened beta testing for new Windows 10 features earlier this year.

Copilot's history is marked by significant changes, from its inception as Windows Copilot in Windows 11 to its demotion to a basic web app with Copilot Plus PCs. Microsoft's latest iteration is touted as a "native version," although it's still essentially a web view of Copilot wrapped in a slightly more native implementation.

The implications of this update are twofold. On one hand, it demonstrates Microsoft's commitment to refining its AI assistant and providing a more seamless user experience. On the other hand, it raises questions about the company's strategy and decision-making process, particularly in light of the conflicting keyboard shortcuts and the ongoing development of Copilot features.

As Microsoft continues to explore options for Copilot's keyboard shortcuts, users can expect further updates and refinements to the AI assistant. The company's willingness to experiment and adapt is a promising sign, but only time will tell if these changes will ultimately benefit users and solidify Copilot's position in the AI assistant market.