- Latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build introduces Group Policy for removing the free Copilot app
- Uninstallation is limited to paying Copilot subscribers
- If the app has been opened in the last 28 days, it will remain installed
The latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build (26220.7535, KB5072046) has been announced, bringing significant changes for users who feel the Copilot app has been imposed on them.
With this update, administrators can finally uninstall the Copilot app, although this option is not available to all users. Some Copilot functionalities will still remain on devices, as only admins of managed workplace devices can currently remove it.
A new Group Policy (RemoveMicrosoftCopilotApp) allows for the removal of the free app, but the version associated with paid M365 subscriptions will stay installed on any device.
You Can Remove the Free Copilot App, Sort Of
The process requires both the free Microsoft Copilot app and the paid Microsoft 365 Copilot apps to be installed, essentially eliminating unnecessary duplication.
However, there are additional criteria: this option is available only to Enterprise, Pro, and EDU users, and the app must not have been launched in the past 28 days.
Moreover, the policy applies only if both the free Copilot and subscription-based M365 Copilot apps are installed. If you are not a customer of the AI service, you will not be able to remove the default free app.
Microsoft stated, "If this policy is enabled, the Microsoft Copilot app will be uninstalled once. Users can still reinstall it if they choose to."
This change comes as part of a broader update aimed at resolving various issues, including a crashing File Explorer, duplicate print dialogs, and a cutoff shutdown warning dialog.
Some known issues persist in the Insider Preview Build, such as Bluetooth battery display problems, a crashing Settings app, and multiple Taskbar/System Tray issues.
Despite widespread dissatisfaction with Microsoft's aggressive promotion of AI, it seems the company has not responded to calls for the complete removal of Copilot apps and features. The Insider update appears to be a minor adjustment rather than a comprehensive solution.
