Hey Copilot, can you hear me? Windows 11 Beta rolls out voice activation for Copilot

In the latest preview build for Windows 11, select beta testers are getting access to a new feature that lets them summon Copilot with just their voice. Simply say, ‘Hey Copilot’, and the AI assistant will perk up, ready to take on your next command. No clicks, no keys; just your voice.

It’s a small yet meaningful upgrade for Copilot, which has rapidly evolved into Microsoft’s all-purpose AI wingman. While the assistant already had a dedicated Copilot key and keyboard shortcuts on laptops, this new hands-free mode makes it feel more ever-present. Something you can turn to in the middle of cooking dinner or while elbow-deep in Photoshop.

Hey Copilot voice activation rolls out on Windows 11 Beta

To try it out, you’ll need to be part of the Windows Insider Program and have the Copilot app updated to version 1.25051.10.0 or later. The rollout is still limited though, only English-language users are getting it for now. Also, it’s not live for all Insiders so far.

Now, the ‘Hey Copilot’ wake word feature won’t be on by default though. You’ll need to head into settings and toggle it on manually. Once enabled, a small floating microphone icon appears near your taskbar, and you’ll hear a subtle chime whenever Copilot starts listening.

ALSO READ: Your Copilot+ PC will finally be the AI PC you wanted it to be

But if this gives you flashbacks of always-on devices hoovering up your conversations, Microsoft wants you to breathe easy. According to the company, the wake word detection uses an on-device listener with a 10-second rolling audio buffer.

That means nothing is sent to the cloud, and no audio clips are saved (locally or otherwise) just to recognise the trigger phrase. You can even activate it offline, though any actual AI magic still requires an internet connection.

This move signals a broader shift in how Microsoft wants you to use Copilot. The assistant isn’t just a sidebar chatbot anymore. It’s being redesigned as a full-fledged voice-enabled co-pilot for your entire Windows experience.

Cortana may be gone, but Microsoft’s AI ambitions are very much awake. Will you be using voice-activated Copilot? Drop a comment to let us know and stay tuned to Unboxed by Croma for all things tech.