Windows 11 Update Introduces Copilot Removal Option for Admins
Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7535, giving IT administrators new control over Microsoft Copilot. This update introduces the RemoveMicrosoftCopilotApp policy, allowing admins to uninstall Copilot from managed devices—an option many businesses have been asking for. However, casual users on Home editions won’t have access to this feature.
The policy targets devices where Microsoft 365 Copilot or Microsoft Copilot is installed, the app wasn’t manually installed by the user, and it hasn’t been launched in the past 28 days. Once these conditions are met, the policy removes the app, though users can reinstall it later if needed.
Who Can Actually Uninstall Microsoft Copilot
Not everyone can use this new policy. It only works on Enterprise, Pro, and Education editions of Windows 11. Admins can activate it using the Group Policy Editor by navigating to:
User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows AI > Remove Microsoft Copilot App.
For regular users on Home editions, Copilot will remain installed. This limitation ensures that organizations maintain control over AI features across multiple devices while home users continue to experience the default Windows AI experience.
Copilot Inactivity Requirement Makes Uninstallation Tricky
Even for eligible editions, uninstalling Copilot isn’t straightforward. The policy only works if the app hasn’t been used for 28 days, and Copilot auto-launches on login by default. This means IT teams or users must disable auto-launch in settings and avoid opening the app for nearly a month.
While this may sound restrictive, the 28-day rule helps prevent accidental removals of AI features that users might still rely on. It also gives organizations time to prepare for updates that could affect workflows dependent on Copilot.
Build 26220 Brings More Copilot Features
For those who enjoy Copilot, Build 26220 also delivers new capabilities. One notable addition is Copilot-powered image descriptions for Narrator. Users can press Narrator key + Ctrl + D to generate descriptions of images, charts, and graphs, enhancing accessibility for visually impaired users.
Other updates include a new Windows Spotlight icon, tweaks to the Start menu, and fixes for File Explorer, Windows Update, and printing issues. Overall, the update balances both administrative control and accessibility improvements.
What This Means for Windows 11 Users
The new Copilot removal policy reflects Microsoft’s approach to enterprise flexibility while still maintaining the AI experience for everyday users. Admins gain the ability to streamline devices, but casual users will need to wait for broader options if they want to uninstall Copilot.
This move highlights Microsoft’s growing focus on customizable AI features across Windows 11, catering to organizations while still advancing accessibility and usability for all users.
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