You can explore various features of Windows 11 before they officially launch by joining the Windows Insider program. In the Beta Channel or if you’re already a member, the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview build 22635.3276 introduces a new hover experience for Windows Copilot, making it more accessible.
Hover to Access Windows 11 Copilot
To access Windows Copilot in Windows 11 version 23H2, click on the Copilot widget located in the left corner of the taskbar. The new hover behavior allows the chatbot to open when you move your mouse cursor over Copilot. While this feature isn’t entirely new to Windows 11, it enhances the user experience.
If you’ve activated the display of Widgets in the taskbar, hovering your mouse over it opens the Widgets board. Microsoft has now applied a similar feature to Copilot in Windows 11, letting users access the AI tool without clicking. Notably, if you don’t engage with the Copilot pane, it will close on its own, unlike Widgets.
While this might not make a big difference for occasional Copilot users, it can be a time-saver for those who frequently use it. The new hover experience eliminates the need for repetitive clicking, potentially saving time for regular Copilot users.
Availability of Windows 11 Copilot Hover Experience
Even if your PC is part of the Beta Channel, you might not immediately notice the new mouse hover feature. This is because the feature is being introduced gradually. According to Microsoft, it will be rolled out to all Beta Channel users over the next few weeks. It’s important to note that toggling the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option won’t speed up the process of getting Copilot’s hover capability.
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How to Join Microsoft Beta Channel
There are two main ways to join the Microsoft Beta Channel, depending on which Microsoft product you’re interested in:
For Microsoft 365:
- Open a Microsoft 365 application: This can be Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or any other Office program you have installed.
- Check your eligibility: Go to Account (your profile picture or initials) and see if you have the option for “Microsoft 365 Insider.” If not, you might need a qualifying Microsoft 365 subscription.
- Choose an Insider level: If you’re eligible, you can choose between the Beta Channel (for earlier features) or the Current Channel (Preview) (for more stable builds).
- Install Insider builds: Follow the in-app instructions to enable Insider builds and download the latest update.
For Windows 11/10:
- Join the Windows Insider Program: This is a separate program from Microsoft 365. You can sign up on the Microsoft website [Join the Windows Insider Program].
- Link your account and choose a channel: After registering, link your Microsoft account and choose the “Beta Channel” for getting early access to new features.
- Download and install Insider builds: You’ll receive instructions on how to download and install the latest Insider builds on your Windows device.
Factors to Consider when Joining Beta Program
- Beta software can be unstable and may contain bugs. It’s not recommended for critical work.
- Make sure to back up your data before installing any Insider builds.
- You can always opt out of the program and go back to the stable version of the software.