Windows AI Copilot: The Future of PC Accessibility?

Windows Copilot 

Microsoft made a lot of noise during Build 2023 about its major announcement, the Windows Copilot. The concept is straightforward: integrate AI into the operating system. Now Windows will have an AI copilot, similar to how the Edge browser (and soon the entire stack of Office apps) do.

However, in my conversation with Panos Panay, the head of Microsoft's Windows (and Surface) group, I wanted to delve into another potential application for generative AI as a tool for accessibility. Although it wasn't specifically stated this way, having a virtual assistant intelligently built into a computer's operating system certainly has some serious accessibility benefits.

Panay was excited about the idea when I asked him about it. "I am so passionate about this topic. You realize that Copilot will work for you once it appears, regardless of your input mode.
Microsoft has recently increased its offering in various ways, whether through Windows features like Live Captions or its modular Adaptive Accessories. Microsoft is not a newcomer to the world of accessibility. However, there is a new chance to integrate everything with Windows Copilot.

Although Windows has always had a basic search feature, making it hyperintelligent makes it much more of an ideal accessibility tool. People who struggle in some way to fully operate their computers may benefit from the Windows Copilot.

Regarding accessibility, Panay said, "The Copilot will accept it whether it's a dexterity problem or if you want to use voice or only write or only type — whatever the mode of input is."
Some people may find it a very useful feature to completely control their operating system from the Windows Copilot via voice or text. However, Windows Copilot's function as a discovery tool has an even wider range of advantages.
Imagine the possibilities if you could use every accessibility feature in Windows, Panay said. "There are things we do for accessibility that are right in front of you, but there is so much in there that is particular to each person. Imagine being able to request it.

Panay mentioned the extensive range of accessibility features already included in Windows, including Sticky Keys, Magnifier, Color Filters, Narrator, Live Captions, and Translation. The issue is that many people who profit from all or some of these features may not be aware that they exist. The Copilot would theoretically direct you in the right direction if you asked for assistance. If such a thing existed, you wouldn't need to search through settings to find it.
Although we won't know how effective Windows Copilot is until we have used it, it is undoubtedly promising.

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