Microsoft Rolls Out 'Hey, Copilot!' Voice Feature for Windows 11 Insiders

Microsoft has begun testing a new feature for Copilot Voice that allows Windows 11 users to initiate conversations with the app simply by saying, "Hey, Copilot!" This feature is currently available to members of the Windows Insider program who have the updated version of Copilot installed. According to a recent blog post, users must enable the feature to use the wake word. The update is gradually rolling out to testers worldwide who have English set as their display language. To check if you have access to this new feature, ensure your Copilot app version is 1.25051.10.0 or higher. Once activated, a floating Copilot microphone icon will appear at the bottom of your screen, accompanied by a chime notification indicating that it is listening. The FAQ clarifies that Copilot uses an on-device wake word detector with a 10-second audio buffer. This means that the app can recognize the wake word even when you are offline, enhancing its responsiveness and privacy. However, to perform any actions, including generating responses, the feature requires internet connectivity to leverage cloud processing capabilities. This integration aims to make interactions with Copilot more seamless and intuitive, aligning with Microsoft's broader goal of enhancing user experience through voice-activated assistance. Testers participating in the Insiders program will play a crucial role in refining the feature before its potential wider release.