Microsoft has begun testing a new voice activation feature called ‘Hey, Copilot!’ for its Copilot Voice in Windows 11. This feature allows users to initiate a conversation with Copilot by simply saying the wake word. Available to Windows Insiders with the updated Copilot app (version 1.25051.10.0 or higher) who opt in, the feature brings a familiar voice command experience similar to Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa, replacing the former Cortana assistant. Once enabled, a floating microphone UI appears on the screen’s bottom, and a chime signals that Copilot is listening. The system uses an on-device wake word spotter with a 10-second audio buffer, ensuring privacy by not sending audio clips to the cloud or storing them locally. While wake word detection works offline, internet access is required for Copilot Voice’s full functionality as it relies on cloud processing.
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