Windows 11 introduced Copilot, a built-in AI assistant designed to help with tasks, settings, and productivity. While some users find it useful, many feel it’s intrusive or unnecessary. If you’re among those who’d rather not have it sitting on your taskbar, you’re not alone.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to disable, remove, or hide Copilot in Windows 11, using multiple methods—from quick settings to advanced tweaks.
Why Remove Copilot from Windows 11?
Before we dive into the how, let’s look at the why:
- Cleaner interface: Fewer distractions on your taskbar.
- Privacy concerns: Some users are cautious about sharing data with AI tools.
- Better performance: Removing unused features can slightly reduce background processes.
- Personal preference: Simply put, you may not need it.
Think of it like decluttering your desk—if you don’t use it, why keep it?
Method 1: Hide Copilot from the Taskbar (Quickest Way)
- Right-click the taskbar.
- Select Taskbar settings.
- Find Copilot (preview) in the Taskbar items section.
- Toggle it off.
This hides the Copilot icon instantly. It’s not uninstalled, but out of sight and out of mind.
Method 2: Disable Copilot via Settings
If you want to ensure it stays off:
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Personalization → Taskbar.
- Locate Copilot (preview).
- Switch the toggle off.
Same result as above, but from the full Settings menu.
Method 3: Use Group Policy Editor (Pro & Enterprise Editions)
For those who want a more permanent solution:
- Press Windows + R, type
gpedit.msc, and hit Enter. - Navigate to:
User Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Windows Copilot - Double-click Turn off Windows Copilot.
- Select Enabled, then click Apply and OK.
- Restart your PC.
This disables Copilot system-wide.
Method 4: Use Registry Editor (Home Edition)
If you’re on Windows 11 Home, you won’t have Group Policy Editor, but you can tweak the registry.
- Press Windows + R, type
regedit, and press Enter. - Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows - Right-click on Windows, choose New → Key, name it WindowsCopilot.
- Inside that, right-click, select New → DWORD (32-bit) Value, name it
TurnOffWindowsCopilot. - Double-click it and set the value to 1.
- Restart your PC.
Copilot will now be disabled.
Method 5: Uninstall Microsoft Edge Web Components (Optional)
Copilot is tied to Microsoft Edge. If you uninstall or disable certain components, it may break Copilot.
- Open Settings → Apps → Installed apps.
- Locate Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime.
- Click Uninstall.
Note: This may affect some apps that rely on WebView2. Use with caution.
Method 6: Block Copilot Updates (Advanced)
If you want to prevent it from coming back after updates:
- Open Settings → Windows Update.
- Pause updates temporarily, or
- Use a Windows Update block tool to delay feature rollouts.
Does Removing Copilot Affect Your System?
- Hiding it: No impact at all.
- Disabling it: Minimal effect on system performance.
- Uninstalling components: Could affect other Microsoft services if done improperly.
Can You Bring Copilot Back Later?
Yes! Just reverse any of the above steps. For example:
- Turn the taskbar toggle back on.
- Undo the Group Policy or Registry change.
- Reinstall WebView2 if removed.
Tips for a Cleaner Taskbar
- Disable other unused icons like Widgets, Task View, or Chat.
- Align icons left for a classic Windows 10 feel.
- Pin only the apps you use daily.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Editing the registry carelessly: Always back it up before changes.
- Removing essential components: Don’t uninstall Edge entirely—it can break parts of Windows.
- Forgetting to restart: Changes may not take effect until after a reboot.
The Bottom Line
Copilot can be handy for some users, but if it’s not for you, Windows 11 gives you multiple ways to disable or remove it. Whether you just want a cleaner taskbar or you’re serious about privacy, these steps let you stay in control.
Conclusion
Windows 11 is full of new features, but that doesn’t mean you need to use them all. Copilot is one of those features you can easily turn off or hide without affecting your overall experience.
So, if you’re not ready to chat with your AI assistant, now you know exactly how to get rid of it.
FAQs
1. Does disabling Copilot uninstall it?
No, it only hides or disables it. The feature remains installed unless you remove its components.
2. Is Copilot available in all versions of Windows 11?
It’s rolling out gradually, so not all users have it yet.
3. Can I remove Copilot without admin rights?
You can hide it from the taskbar, but disabling it system-wide requires admin access.
4. Does removing Copilot affect updates?
No, Windows Update will continue to work normally.
5. Can I reinstall Copilot if I change my mind?
Yes—just re-enable it in taskbar settings or undo any registry/group policy changes.