ISLAMABAD: Microsoft has rolled out a significant update to its Copilot feature for Windows 11, replacing the earlier native application with a web-based version an overhaul that is already drawing attention for its noticeably higher system resource consumption.
The latest upgrade signals a strategic shift in how Copilot operates within Microsoft’s flagship operating system. Previously offered as a native WinUI application with integrated sidebar tools, Copilot has now transitioned into a hybrid web application.
Users can download the updated version directly from the Microsoft Store, where it has been tailored specifically for Windows 11 devices.
The installation process mirrors that of Microsoft Edge, launching a separate setup that automatically removes the older native Copilot app. The redesigned interface closely resembles its web counterpart and is powered by WebView2, enabling the app to render content using a dedicated Edge-based runtime environment.
However, early testing indicates a substantial increase in resource usage. The updated Copilot consumes approximately 500MB of RAM while running in the background, with usage surging to nearly 1GB during active sessions significantly higher than the under 100MB footprint of the previous native version.
Under the hood, the application includes a full installation of Microsoft Edge rather than relying on the system’s existing browser. The installation package occupies around 850MB of storage and contains all essential components, including executables, browser subsystems, extensions, and DRM modules, ensuring seamless compatibility with Windows 11.
While the hybrid architecture enhances responsiveness compared to conventional web applications, it comes at the cost of increased memory consumption an aspect that may concern users with limited system resources.
The update highlights Microsoft’s broader push toward web-driven experiences within Windows 11, blending native integration with cloud-powered capabilities as it continues to redefine the future of desktop applications.
