Microsoft’s latest Patch Tuesday release is crucial, addressing a total of 57 security flaws, including seven classified as zero-day vulnerabilities. It is highly recommended that all Windows users promptly download and install this update, particularly due to the heightened risks associated with these zero-day issues for PC users.

Interestingly, this update included an additional fix that Microsoft had not previously announced or expected: the unintended removal of Copilot from Windows systems.

The Disappearance of Copilot Post-Update

After applying KB5053598 (for Windows 11) or KB5053606 (for Windows 10), some users found that not only had the Copilot icon been unpinned from their taskbars, but the entire Copilot application had been removed. While Microsoft has not clarified the reason behind this glitch in the recent updates, they mentioned that the issue was not observed in the Microsoft 365 Copilot app, which is directly integrated into their Office suite.

However, Microsoft has since claimed to have resolved the problem. Their support documentation for both Windows 11 and Windows 10 states: “This issue has been resolved, and affected devices will be restored to their previous state. Users can also reinstall the application through the Microsoft Store and pin it to the taskbar once more.”

Any patches implemented by Microsoft should reinstate Copilot on your device. Yet, if it doesn’t reappear immediately, the option to reinstall the app via the Microsoft Store and pin it back to the taskbar remains available. This reinstall method had also been suggested as a temporary solution by Microsoft while they worked on a proper fix throughout the previous week.

Alternatively, some users may prefer not to reinstall Copilot. A notable number of individuals are actively seeking ways to disable Copilot, and numerous tools exist to assist in its removal from Windows. In a way, Microsoft’s actions could be seen as a fortunate turn of events for those not wanting the AI assistant. It is quite ironic that a company emphasizing the importance of AI tools—regardless of user preference—has taken steps to eliminate them from your device through a software patch.

That being said, Copilot is not devoid of usefulness. There are numerous potential advantages that this AI tool offers to Windows users (and now even to Mac users). However, if the benefits of such tools have not been evident in your personal or professional life over the last two and a half years since ChatGPT introduced this AI revolution, then the involuntary removal of Microsoft’s prominent assistant might actually be a welcomed change.