Microsoft teases something big for Windows 11: Copilot and Voice Access upgrades suggest it is voice-powered computing

Microsoft could be bringing more conversational and hands-free capabilities to Windows 11. The Redmond-based company has teased an upcoming major announcement for Thursday, 16, and clues suggest that voice control will take center stage.

The teaser was shared on Microsoft’s Windows X account. The company wrote, “Your hands are about to get some PTO. Time to rest those fingers…something big is coming Thursday.”

The post does not offer any specific details. However, the announcement’s timing could hint at what to expect. Microsoft has recently released Windows 11 Insider builds and public previews with a greater focus on AI-assisted, voice-driven operations and more capable Voice Access and Copilot.

The software giant’s new Voice Access enhancements include new “natural language commanding” capabilities and the ability to delay command execution. They indicate Microsoft might be working on making user interaction with its popular operating system (OS) more natural and smoother.

In addition, Microsoft has added a “Hey Copilot” activation in recent Insider builds, suggesting that the AI assistant is being prepped for system-wide voice summoning. Should the feature see the light of day, Windows users could launch and close apps, adjust settings, and reposition windows completely hands-free.

Microsoft’s continued investment in voice control and its push for greater AI integration will likely herald a shift in how Windows customers interact with their computers. This would be a welcome development for people with accessibility needs, enabling increased productivity through voice-based system navigation. Other user groups could also benefit from fewer clicks and faster workflows.

Microsoft, however, is not the only tech company thinking in this direction. Rival Apple macOS already includes full desktop voice control and a “Siri” wake phrase. Google is also updating its Chromebooks by replacing Assistant with the upcoming Gemini AI assistant. Microsoft, however, could still become the first mainstream OS to be built around AI voice input.