In an unexpected move, Microsoft’s latest security update has removed its AI-powered Copilot app from many Windows 10 and Windows 11 computers. The update, released as part of the company’s regular Patch Tuesday program, aimed to fix 57 security vulnerabilities. However, users quickly noticed that Microsoft Copilot was also uninstalled during the process.
What Happened?
On Tuesday, March 12, 2025, Microsoft rolled out two major updates for its Windows operating systems:
- KB5053598 for Windows 11
- KB5053606 for Windows 10
After installing these updates, many users found the Copilot icon missing from their taskbar. Upon further inspection, they realized the Copilot app was no longer available on their computers. According to Microsoft, the issue does not affect the Microsoft 365 Copilot, which remains fully functional within apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
The removal appears to be unintentional. Microsoft has not provided an official explanation for why the app was uninstalled.
What Is Microsoft Copilot?
Microsoft Copilot is an AI-powered virtual assistant integrated into Windows. It helps users perform tasks such as drafting emails, generating text, creating presentations, and finding information. Copilot uses generative AI technologies, similar to OpenAI’s ChatGPT, and is designed to streamline both professional and personal tasks.
Copilot first appeared in Windows updates in late 2023. Since then, Microsoft has heavily promoted it as part of its strategy to bring AI into everyday computing.
Why Was Copilot Removed?
At this time, Microsoft has not confirmed the reason behind Copilot’s removal. In a brief statement, the company acknowledged the issue and said it is working on a solution. Microsoft confirmed that the removal does not affect the Copilot functions within Microsoft 365 apps.
Some users speculate that the removal could be linked to a bug in the latest updates. However, there is no official confirmation.
Official Statement from Microsoft
“We are aware of reports that the Copilot app has been uninstalled following the installation of updates KB5053598 and KB5053606. We are investigating the issue and will provide a fix in a future update.”
How to Get Copilot Back
If your PC no longer has Copilot and you wish to restore it, you can manually reinstall it from the Microsoft Store. After reinstalling, you can also pin the Copilot icon back to your taskbar.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reinstall Copilot:
- Open the Microsoft Store on your Windows PC.
- Search for Microsoft Copilot.
- Click Install to download and install the app.
- Once installed, right-click on the app and choose Pin to taskbar for easy access.
Is This a Problem or a Benefit?
While some users are eager to reinstall Copilot, others see the removal as an advantage. Since its introduction, many Windows users have searched for ways to disable or remove Copilot from their PCs. Tools and guides on how to remove the AI assistant have been widely shared online.
For users who prefer a clean, AI-free desktop experience, Microsoft’s unintended removal of Copilot may feel like a helpful accident.
Security Update Overview
Despite the Copilot issue, the Patch Tuesday update is critical. Microsoft fixed 57 security vulnerabilities, including seven zero-day flaws. Zero-day vulnerabilities are serious because they are often exploited by cybercriminals before developers can release fixes.
Key Details on the Security Patches:
- Vulnerabilities range from privilege escalation to remote code execution.
- Some zero-day flaws were actively exploited before the patch release.
- Microsoft recommends all Windows users install the latest updates immediately.
For the full list of patched vulnerabilities, visit Microsoft’s official security update page.
Copilot Still Available in Microsoft 365
It’s important to note that Microsoft 365 Copilot is unaffected. Users of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other Microsoft Office apps can continue to use the AI assistant without interruption.
Microsoft has confirmed it is developing an update to address the Copilot removal issue. A timeline for the fix has not been shared yet. Users who rely on Copilot are advised to manually reinstall the app or wait for the next update.
