Microsoft Abandons Copilot+ PCs, Ends Support for Publisher Amid AI-Powered OS Plans
Microsoft has announced that its AI-powered Copilot will be built as a new operating system (OS) for work, sparking confusion among Windows users. This move comes after the company's CEO, Satya Nadella, stated that they are 'building Copilot as a new OS for work.' The absence of any mention of Windows in this announcement is notable, leaving many to wonder if Microsoft is preparing for a post-Windows world.
The Copilot+ PC branding has also been officially abandoned by the company. This decision comes after the controversy surrounding the Recall feature and the lackluster AI features. The shift away from Copilot features in Windows is also underway, with users now able to remap the Copilot key and Notepad no longer having a Copilot button.
Meanwhile, Microsoft has decided to end support for its 35-year-old Publisher app in October. Users with a Microsoft 365 subscription will lose access on Oct. 1, while those with a non-subscription version can still use it after the support ends on Oct. 13. However, the company recommends using PowerPoint and Word as alternatives.
The regional availability and pricing details for Copilot-based OS in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and elsewhere in the Middle East have not been provided by Microsoft. The company's plans for AI-centric visions remain unclear, and users are left to speculate about what this means for Windows and its future.