Over the years,Microsofthas developed a reputation for occasionally delivering bug-ridden or otherwise glitchy Windows Updates onto users' PCs.File Explorer issues, accidentaldeletion of personal data, and more – the complicated nature of Windows 11’sdecades-old codebasemakes it an ever-present challenge to plug pesky errors before they’re able to wreak havoc.
While less consequential than some previous botched updates, Microsoft’s latestWindows 11debacle is particularly amusing: upon updating to the latest version KB5053598 (build 2611.3476) of the OS, some users are being greeted with a desktop sans-Copilot AIchatbot.
Microsoft’s latest Windows 11 debacle is particularly amusing.
Microsoft has confirmed that it’s aware of the issue, citing the removal of the Copilot app under the ‘known issues in this update’ sectionof its support page.
“We’re aware of an issue with the Microsoft Copilot app affecting some devices. The app is unintentionally uninstalled and unpinned from the taskbar. Microsoft is working on a resolution to address this issue. In the meantime, affected users can reinstall the app from the Microsoft Store and manually pin it to the taskbar,” says Microsoft.
Microsoft Copilot
Copilot is Microsoft’s AI assistant integrated into the Bing Search Engine and Windows 11. It can answer questions and assist with various tasks like writing, editing, and image generation.
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Microsoft accidentally snubs its flagship AI chatbot
In a botched Windows 11 update, the company’s Copilot app accidentally uninstalls itself without cause
What makes Microsoft’s accidental removal of the Copilot chatbot app such an eyebrow-raising bug to encounter, is the sheer fact that the company is currently all-in on AI and the Copilot branding as a whole.
Microsoft is investing heavily in marketing itsCopilot+ PCWindows laptops, which feature processors capable of advanced on-device generative AI features. The company has gone as far as to mandate adedicated Copilot buttonon the keyboard of Copilot+ certified laptops, to further drive home the point.
The tech giant recently pushed out arefreshed Copilot appexperience for Windows 11 devices, which features an updated interface and a number of new native user interface elements.
Public opinion on Microsoft’s Copilot chatbot is somewhat mixed. While the underlyingChatGPT-based large language models (LLMs) powering the service are undoubtedly impressive, many feel that AI is being needlessly jammed down their throat. Others have been poking fun at Microsoft’s recent Copilot-infused naming conventions.
It’s unclear whether the company’s broader Copilot+ PC bid has paid off thus far, either: the flagship Windows Recall AI featurehas been delayedamidprivacy concerns, and, anecdotally, the rest of the AI-powered suite of features has yet to take the world by storm.
It’s unclear whether the company’s broader Copilot+ PC bid has paid off thus far.
Thankfully, it’s easy enough to re-download the official Copilot app onto yourWindows 11 PC, if you find yourself unhappy with its accidental termination. To do so, follow these steps:
Once installed, you’re able to re-pin the Copilot app onto your taskbar byright-clickingon the app icon >Pin to taskbar.
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