Microsoft Releases Minor Windows 11 Update with Limited New Features and AI Sidebar Copilot

Latest Windows 11 update brings largely minor features and the AI sidebar assistant "Copilot", as company slowly pivots to integrating more AI and online services.

The recent Windows 11 update, version 23H2, is a minor one with limited new features and functionality. It comes as a small package that turns on a few new features for those running the 2022 edition with negligible impact on core operating system files.
The new features exclusive to this release include Microsoft's Copilot, an AI sidebar assistant to help users navigate their tasks. Moreover, the Chat app has been renamed Microsoft Teams and is now pinned to the taskbar by default, focused on improving communication and collaboration.
Microsoft aims to leverage AI integration into its system through Windows Copilot, which provides various style interfaces and presents task suggestions. However, its present functionality seems to rely heavily on web search results rather than inbuilt system capabilities.
Other AI implementations include features for the Snipping Tool and Paint. Snipping Tool now offers text extraction and redaction, geared towards privacy protection. Paint is set to receive a 'Cocreator' function that uses AI to generate unique images from text prompts in the future.
Microsoft's long-term strategy appears to focus more heavily on online services rather than substantial OS upgrades. The company is generating much of its revenue through OEM licenses and online services like Microsoft 365 and Xbox Live, transitioning from 'Windows as a Service' to eventually 'Microsoft as a Service'.