How to Hide (or Disable) Copilot in Windows 11

Microsoft Copilot is Microsoft’s built-in AI assistant in Windows 11, designed to help with quick answers, suggestions, and productivity tips. But not everyone wants an AI assistant hovering in their taskbar or using system resources. If Copilot isn’t for you, here’s how to hide or disable it—step by step.

What is Copilot in Windows 11?

Copilot is Microsoft’s AI-powered assistant, showing up as an icon in your taskbar. It integrates with Microsoft Edge and other services to offer AI-powered help. But for some users, it’s just another distraction or privacy concern.

How to Hide the Copilot Icon from Your Taskbar

If you just don’t want to see Copilot, but don’t mind it running in the background, hiding it is easy:

1. Right-click the Taskbar: Move your mouse pointer to an empty spot on your taskbar and right-click.
2. Open Taskbar Settings: In the context menu, click Taskbar settings.
3. Toggle Off Copilot: Find the “Copilot (preview)” switch in the Taskbar items section and toggle it off.

That’s it. The Copilot icon disappears from your taskbar.

How to Disable Copilot Completely

Want to go a step further and block Copilot altogether? You can use Windows settings or Group Policy (if you’re running Windows 11 Pro, Education, or Enterprise). Here’s how:

Option 1: Using Group Policy Editor

Note: This only works on Windows 11 Pro, Education, and Enterprise. If you’re on Windows 11 Home, skip to the Registry method below.

1. Open Group Policy Editor
   Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to Copilot Policy
   Go to:
   Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Copilot
3. Edit Policy
   Double-click on “Turn off Windows Copilot”.
4. Enable the Policy
   Select Enabled, then click Apply and OK.
5. Restart Your PC
   Changes will take effect after a restart.

Option 2: Using Windows Registry Editor (Works on All Versions)

Warning: Editing the Registry can affect your system. Only proceed if you’re comfortable with this.

1. Open Registry Editor
   Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to the Policy Key
   Go to:
   HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsCopilot
   • If WindowsCopilot doesn’t exist, right-click the Windows key, select New > Key, and name it WindowsCopilot.
3. Create or Edit the Policy Value
   • In the right pane, right-click and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
   • Name it: TurnOffWindowsCopilot
   • Set its value to 1.
4. Restart Your PC
   The Copilot feature should now be disabled.

Why Hide or Disable Copilot?

• Privacy: If you don’t want AI processing your data.
• Performance: Fewer background processes can mean a faster PC.
• Focus: Some users find Copilot distracting or unnecessary.

Final Thoughts

Microsoft Copilot can be helpful, but it’s not for everyone. Whether you just want a cleaner taskbar or want to block Copilot entirely, Windows 11 gives you control. Try these steps and take charge of your desktop.

Have questions or need more Windows 11 tips? Leave a comment below!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!