Copilot Vision: Here's How to Use the AI Assistant to Read Your Screen
Meet Copilot Vision, the latest breakthrough from Microsoft that brings powerful visual intelligence to its AI assistant.
With this feature, Copilot can now “see” what’s on your screen, whether you’re using a Windows PC, Microsoft Edge browser, or even your mobile device.
It marks a significant step toward real-time, context-aware AI support that can assist users more intuitively than ever before.
In this guide, we’ll explore how Copilot Vision works, where it’s available, its benefits and limitations, and how to use it across different platforms.
What Is Copilot Vision and How Does It Work? 🤔
Copilot Vision is an integrated visual feature within Microsoft Copilot that enables the AI to quickly interpret and react to the content shown on your screen.
With this capability, the assistant can offer helpful guidance, context-based explanations, and navigation support depending on the visual information it detects.
On compatible devices, users can turn on Copilot Vision by selecting the glasses-shaped icon. Once activated, the assistant is granted access to selected apps or browser windows. From there, it can:
- Identify interface elements (buttons, menus, text fields)
- Offer instructions or summarize content
- Highlight where to click using a floating pointer
- Respond via voice or text
Importantly, Copilot Vision does not perform automated actions, it only provides guidance, ensuring that user control and privacy are maintained.
Copilot Vision on Windows: A Real-Time Assistant on Your Desktop 💻
On Windows 10 and Windows 11, Copilot Vision is currently available within the standalone Copilot app. Once enabled, users can allow the assistant to “see” up to two apps or windows at the same time. This is particularly useful in multi-tasking environments, such as:
- Designing graphics in Photoshop or Canva
- Browsing files in File Explorer
- Editing documents in Microsoft Word or Excel
Another major enhancement is the Highlights feature, which visually marks where users should click. This is especially helpful for beginners or those exploring a new app for the first time.
Currently, the feature is being rolled out to users in the United States, with plans for wider international availability in future updates.
Copilot Vision in Microsoft Edge: Smarter Browsing with Visual Insight 🌐
For those using the Microsoft Edge browser, Copilot Vision is accessible directly via a sidebar or toolbar extension. Once activated, it can analyze any webpage and offer contextual information, such as:
- Summarizing long articles or blog posts
- Explaining technical content or data visualizations
- Identifying buttons or links that might be confusing
- Highlighting key sections for better reading flow
However, some web pages with sensitive or restricted content might not allow Copilot Vision access. In such cases, the glasses icon remains grayed out.
Still, the feature can dramatically improve productivity and accessibility when browsing the web. Unlike the Windows version, Copilot Vision for Edge is available globally, and does not require a paid subscription.
Copilot Vision on Mobile Devices: AI with Eyes on the World 📱
On smartphones, Copilot Vision leverages the device’s camera to visually scan and understand the nearby environment.
This version is available for Copilot Pro subscribers in the U.S. and supports both iOS and Android devices. With this, you can point your camera at:
- Physical documents
- Objects in your surroundings
- Screens or signs
Copilot will then generate relevant responses, whether it’s translating a sign, explaining a diagram, or identifying an object. The mobile integration opens up exciting use cases for travel, education, and accessibility.
Privacy and Security: How Copilot Vision Protects Your Data 🔒
Microsoft emphasizes that Copilot Vision is opt-in only, meaning it won’t access your screen or camera without your explicit permission.
Key privacy safeguards include:
- Session-based access: Visual data is not stored after your session ends
- Local processing: Copilot analyzes visual input solely during the active session.
- No auto-clicking: The AI never takes control of your device
These measures ensure that while Copilot Vision is powerful, it remains firmly under your control and respects your privacy.
A New Way to Interact with AI 🚀
Instead of relying solely on typed or spoken commands, users can now engage in a visual conversation with the assistant, letting it understand context, react intelligently, and guide actions based on what it sees.
Copilot Vision represents a major evolution in the way we interact with artificial intelligence. While still limited to certain platforms and regions, its potential is vast, and it’s only just beginning.
If you’re in a supported region or using Microsoft Edge, try Copilot Vision today and experience a smarter, more interactive way to work and explore!
Frequently Asked Questions ❓
1. What is Copilot Vision?
- Copilot Vision is a feature within Microsoft Copilot that allows it to visually interpret your screen or camera feed and provide real-time guidance.
2. Can Copilot Vision control my device?
- No. It does not perform clicks or scrolls. It only provides visual or verbal instructions and suggestions.
3. Is Copilot Vision free to use?
- Yes, in Edge and Windows (if available in your region). However, on mobile devices, it is exclusive to Copilot Pro subscribers.
