Microsoft announces Copilot file access and new Windows search actions

Copilot gains a broader role in Windows

Microsoft announced expanded Copilot capabilities at its October 7, 2026 Windows and Surface event, including access to files stored on a PC and actions across Windows. The announcement moves the assistant further toward carrying out tasks within the operating system.

According to Engadget’s account of the announcement, Copilot will need the user’s permission to perform actions based on local files. That makes user approval a condition of the announced file-based capabilities.

Windows search becomes a place to perform tasks

Microsoft said thousands of quick actions would begin becoming available through Windows taskbar search in fall 2026. Announced examples include turning on dark mode, taking screenshots, changing volume, answering questions and sending text messages.

For Windows users, the practical change is a search box that can also serve as a starting point for everyday tasks. The examples span both simple PC controls, such as volume, and communication, such as text messages.

Local AI and cloud computing share the work

Microsoft described combining artificial intelligence running directly on the PC with cloud resources—computing capacity accessed remotely. The Verge calls this approach “Hybrid Intelligence.” The distinction matters because Microsoft’s announced approach uses both local and remote computing.

The announcement follows Microsoft’s earlier Project Solara platform for AI agents, meaning systems designed to perform tasks, and a recent Copilot app update adding automation. Together, these developments show Microsoft’s continued push toward assistants that carry out actions.

Microsoft’s stated fall 2026 start window applies to the taskbar search actions. The expanded Copilot file capabilities were presented as an announcement; the supplied reporting does not establish when users will receive them or how their permission controls will work.