Microsoft is advancing Windows 11 toward becoming a true AI operating system, where intelligent agents perform tasks for you. Recently, the company announced a major update that brings Windows 11 closer to this vision. A new AI agent called Copilot Actions is in development as part of this agentic AI framework. Along with this, Microsoft introduced the “Hey Copilot” wake word, which allows users to launch Copilot Vision mode hands-free at any time.
The “Hey Copilot” wake word lets you summon Microsoft’s AI assistant seamlessly, similar to how Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri operate. Microsoft had a “Hey Cortana” feature in the past, but Copilot’s deep integration into Windows 11 promises more functionality than a typical digital assistant. Naturally, with the ability to say “Hey Copilot” to start a session, Microsoft is also enabling users to say “goodbye” to end a Copilot voice session.
This “goodbye” feature recently appeared on the Microsoft 365 Roadmap and was spotted by Neowin. It allows users to close a voice session simply by saying “bye” or “goodbye,” completing a fully hands-free experience when paired with the “Hey Copilot” wake word. This feature is currently in preview and is expected to roll out next month, though dates may shift. By default, “Hey Copilot” initiates a chat, but users can also configure it to activate Copilot Vision. It is anticipated that the “goodbye” command will similarly end sessions in both modes.
Copilot Vision made headlines recently after a confusing Microsoft ad showed it unsuccessfully trying to assist a user with changing a Windows 11 setting. The ad implied the AI was functioning as intended, but it was removed following criticism. Microsoft will need to enhance the Copilot experience on Windows 11 before users fully embrace summoning the assistant with “Hey Copilot.”
This update marks a significant step in making Windows 11 more interactive and AI-driven, offering users a flexible and hands-free way to interact with their devices through voice commands.
