How to Disable Copilot Recall and AI Features in Windows 11

Understanding AI Integration in Windows 11

Microsoft has deeply integrated artificial intelligence across Windows 11, embedding features like Copilot and Recall into core applications including Paint, Notepad, and File Explorer. Unlike previous versions, there is no single master switch to deactivate all AI functionality at once. Users running Windows 11 Home 26H2 on devices such as the Surface Laptop 7 or Surface Pro 11 must navigate multiple settings menus to regain control over their privacy and system resources.

Disabling Copilot Across the Operating System

Copilot serves as Microsoft’s flagship AI assistant, accessible via the taskbar, Microsoft Edge, and dedicated keyboard keys on newer hardware like the Surface Laptop Studio 2. To turn off Copilot completely, open Settings, navigate to Personalization, then Taskbar, and toggle off the Copilot switch. For enterprise users on Windows 11 Pro, Group Policy Editor offers additional control through Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Copilot. This prevents Copilot from launching on devices including the Dell XPS 14 or HP Spectre x360 14 when equipped with dedicated AI keys.

Managing Recall Snapshots and Data Collection

Recall captures periodic snapshots of your screen activity, creating a searchable timeline exclusive to Copilot+ PCs powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processors. To disable Recall, visit Settings > Privacy & security > Recall & snapshots and turn off the Save snapshots toggle. Note that this feature requires specific hardware found in the Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7, while traditional x86 devices like the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 do not support Recall at this time. Deleting existing snapshots requires clicking the Delete snapshots button within the same menu.

Turning Off AI Features in Native Applications

Individual applications now include their own AI toggles. In Paint, the Cocreator feature powered by DALL-E can be disabled by opening the app, clicking the Cocreator icon, and signing out of your Microsoft account. Notepad’s Rewrite feature, which uses cloud-based AI to rephrase text, requires opening Settings within Notepad and turning off the Rewrite option. File Explorer’s AI-powered search suggestions can be disabled via Folder Options > Search tab by unchecking Include AI-enhanced results. These settings apply universally whether you’re using a Microsoft Surface device or third-party hardware like the ASUS Zenbook S 16.

Outdated Guides and Version-Specific Considerations

Many online tutorials reference Windows 11 23H2 or 24H2 interfaces that differ significantly from the current 26H2 release. The dedicated Copilot key introduced on keyboards shipping with the Surface Laptop 7 and Surface Pro 11 cannot be remapped through standard Settings in 26H2, though third-party tools like AutoHotkey offer workarounds. Additionally, Microsoft has removed the ability to uninstall Copilot via PowerShell in recent builds, making the taskbar toggle the primary control method. Users on managed devices should consult their IT administrators, as organizational policies may override local settings on hardware including the Framework Laptop 13 or Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro.

Balancing AI Convenience with Privacy Preferences

While AI features can enhance productivity on modern hardware like the Apple MacBook Pro M3 running Windows via virtualization, many users prefer a leaner operating system. Regularly reviewing Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback ensures optional diagnostic data including AI usage statistics remains disabled. For maximum control, consider using local accounts instead of Microsoft accounts, which limits cloud-based AI processing across applications. As Microsoft continues expanding AI integration in future updates, staying informed about new toggles and policy changes remains essential for maintaining your preferred Windows experience.