Microsoft has announced the beginning of testing a new hands-free feature in Windows 11 called "Hey, Copilot!" This feature will enable users to wake up the Copilot application through simple voice commands, allowing for voice interaction. This new function is currently being rolled out to some Windows Insider users, provided that they update their Copilot application to version 1.25051.10.0 or higher.

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According to Microsoft's official blog, this hands-free wake-up function is similar to existing voice assistants like Apple's Siri, Google Assistant, and Amazon's Alexa, but it’s a new addition for Copilot. Previously, users mainly relied on specific buttons or key combinations to launch the Copilot application. Now, by simply saying "Hey, Copilot!", users can begin a conversation with the application, significantly enhancing the convenience of user experience.

To use this new feature, users need to enable the relevant settings in the Copilot application. This function is not immediately available to all Insider users; instead, it is being gradually rolled out to global English-speaking users. Once the feature is successfully activated, a microphone icon for Copilot will appear at the bottom of the screen, accompanied by an audio prompt indicating that the application is listening to user commands.

It is worth noting that this hands-free function uses local wake-word detection technology with a 10-second audio buffer to ensure that the wake word "Hey, Copilot!" can be recognized even without an internet connection. However, to allow Copilot to execute actual commands, users still need an internet connection to access cloud processing capabilities.

The introduction of this new feature marks Microsoft's ongoing efforts to enhance the user experience of its Copilot voice assistant. Through this innovative hands-free interaction method, users will be able to interact more easily with Copilot in Windows 11, enjoying a more convenient operation experience.

Key Points:

🔊 Microsoft introduces the "Hey, Copilot!" hands-free wake-up feature in Windows 11, making it easier for users to engage in voice interactions.  

🆕 This feature is currently being rolled out to some Windows Insider users and requires updating the Copilot application to a specific version.  

🌐 When using the hands-free function, users need to maintain an internet connection for Copilot to access cloud processing capabilities.