Copilot from Sidebar: Microsoft is making significant efforts to ensure Windows 11 users have seamless access to the Microsoft Copilot AI assistant. While the assistant is already available to many users for performing various tasks, the company is focused on simplifying and enhancing its usability on Windows PCs.
Previously, the Copilot Assistant would always open on the right-hand side of the screen, a placement that might not suit everyone’s preference. Recognizing this, Microsoft has introduced a feature allowing users to dock and undock the Copilot sidebar, making it moveable to any part of the screen. However, this new functionality is not yet available to all users.
For those eager to try the moveable Copilot sidebar, a reliable tool like ViveTool can help enable the feature. A select group of users on the Canary and Dev builds of Windows 11 already has this option, but others can manually activate it to enjoy the flexibility of repositioning the Copilot sidebar to their liking. Read on to explore how you can make this adjustment on your Windows 11 PC.
How to Unlock Copilot from Sidebar in Windows 11
If you want to undock the Copilot sidebar and freely move it around on your Windows 11 PC, follow these steps. We’ll guide you through downloading the ViveTool file and running the necessary command to enable this feature. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Download ViveTool
Go to the GitHub page to download the ViveTool file if you haven’t already done so on your PC.
Step 2: Extract the ViveTool File
Once you’ve downloaded the ViveTool zip file, extract the folder to a location you can easily access later.
Step 3: Open Command Prompt
Next, open the Start Menu and search for “Command Prompt.”
Step 4: Run Command Prompt as Administrator
Right-click on Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator to ensure you have the necessary permissions.
Step 5: Set the Directory
With Command Prompt open, type the following command to set the directory where you extracted the ViveTool folder:
Replace “[path to ViveTool folder]” with the actual location where you saved the extracted files.
Step 6: Enable the Undockable Copilot Sidebar
Once the directory is set, type this command to enable the undockable Copilot sidebar:
Press Enter to run the command.
Step 7: Restart Your PC
After executing the command, close all programs and restart your Windows PC.
Step 8: Adjust Copilot Sidebar
After the restart, click on the Copilot icon at the bottom right of your taskbar. When the Copilot sidebar opens, click on the three dots menu and uncheck the Dock option.
With the Dock option unchecked, you can now move the Copilot sidebar to any part of the screen—whether it’s on the left, right, or wherever you prefer.
Why Undock Copilot from the Sidebar?
Enhanced Screen Real Estate
The sidebar can occupy a portion of your workspace. For users juggling multiple apps or working on large spreadsheets, every inch of the screen counts. Undocking Copilot frees up space, allowing you to position it anywhere on your desktop.
Improved Workflow Flexibility
When Copilot is undocked, it becomes a floating assistant that’s easier to interact with. Whether you’re brainstorming or managing a complex project, having Copilot at your fingertips without constraints enhances productivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “undocking” the Copilot sidebar mean?
Undocking the Copilot sidebar allows you to move the sidebar from its default position on the right side of the screen to any location you prefer, such as the left side or even floating freely.
Do I need any tools to enable the undock feature for Copilot?
Yes, you need to use a tool called ViveTool, which allows you to enable experimental features on Windows 11.
Is the undockable Copilot sidebar feature available for all Windows 11 users?
Currently, this feature is being rolled out to select users in the Canary and Developer builds of Windows 11. However, you can enable it manually using ViveTool.
How do I disable the “Dock” option for the Copilot sidebar?
To disable the Dock option, open the Copilot sidebar, click the three dots menu at the top, and uncheck the Dock option. This allows you to move the sidebar freely.
Is it safe to use ViveTool to enable the undockable Copilot feature?
Yes, ViveTool is widely used for enabling experimental features in Windows, but make sure to follow the instructions carefully. As always, proceed at your own discretion and back up important data before making system changes.
conclusion
The ability to undock and move the Copilot sidebar in Windows 11 offers a more flexible and customizable user experience. While this feature is gradually being rolled out to Canary and Developer build users, you can enable it manually using the ViveTool. By following the steps to download ViveTool, run the required commands, and disable the Dock option, you can position the Copilot sidebar wherever you prefer on your screen.
This feature enhances productivity and usability, and it is expected to be available for all Windows 11 users in future updates. For now, if you want early access, the steps provided will help you unlock this functionality easily.