AI That Sees Your Screen
Microsoft has launched Copilot Vision, a revolutionary AI feature that can see your screen in real-time and take actions on your behalf. Unlike traditional AI assistants that work with text, Copilot Vision understands visual context and can navigate applications like a human.
How It Works
Screen Understanding
Copilot Vision processes your screen to:
| Capability | Description |
|---|---|
| Element Detection | Identifies buttons, forms, text |
| Context Understanding | Grasps what you're trying to do |
| Action Planning | Determines steps to complete tasks |
| Execution | Clicks, types, scrolls on your behalf |
Action Types
- Navigation: Opening apps, switching windows
- Data Entry: Filling forms, typing messages
- Analysis: Reading and summarizing content
- Automation: Multi-step workflows
Real-World Examples
Example 1: Travel Booking
User: "Book me a flight to New York next Tuesday, returning Friday"
Copilot Vision:
- Opens browser
- Navigates to flight search
- Enters dates and destination
- Compares options
- Presents best choices for confirmation
Example 2: Data Analysis
User: "Create a chart from this spreadsheet showing Q4 sales trends"
Copilot Vision:
- Analyzes spreadsheet content
- Identifies relevant data columns
- Opens chart wizard
- Configures chart type and data range
- Formats and positions chart
Safety Features
Permission Model
| Action Type | Permission Required |
|---|---|
| Reading screen | Implicit (when enabled) |
| Clicking buttons | Confirmation for new apps |
| Entering text | Confirmation for passwords |
| Financial actions | Always confirm |
Privacy Protections
- Local Processing: Screen data processed on-device
- No Recording: Screen content not stored
- Selective Sharing: User controls what Copilot sees
- Incognito Mode: Disable for sensitive tasks
Technical Requirements
System Requirements
- Windows 11 24H2 or later
- 16GB RAM minimum
- Copilot+ PC (NPU recommended)
- Microsoft 365 subscription
Supported Applications
- All Windows desktop applications
- Microsoft 365 apps (enhanced integration)
- Web browsers (Edge, Chrome)
- Third-party apps via accessibility APIs
Comparison with Competitors
Copilot Vision vs. Claude Computer Use vs. Google Project Mariner
| Feature | Copilot Vision | Claude | Mariner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Platform | Windows | Any | Chrome |
| Integration | Deep OS | API-based | Browser |
| Speed | Fastest | Medium | Medium |
| Privacy | On-device | Cloud | Cloud |
| Price | M365 included | API fees | Free |
Enterprise Features
IT Admin Controls
- Policy Management: Control which features are enabled
- Audit Logging: Track all AI actions
- App Restrictions: Limit to approved applications
- Data Protection: Integration with DLP policies
Deployment Options
- Personal: Included with Microsoft 365 Personal/Family
- Business: Microsoft 365 Business Premium and above
- Enterprise: Enterprise E3/E5 with enhanced controls
Developer Integration
Copilot Vision SDK
Developers can:
- Create custom actions for their apps
- Define app-specific commands
- Provide context hints
- Enable enhanced interactions
// Register custom action
CopilotVision.registerAction({
name: "createInvoice",
description: "Create a new invoice in the accounting app",
handler: async (params) => {
// Custom action logic
}
});
What's Next
Microsoft plans to expand Copilot Vision with:
- Mobile platform support (iOS, Android)
- More application integrations
- Enhanced multi-step workflows
- Cross-device actions
"Copilot Vision represents the next evolution of human-computer interaction. Instead of learning our apps, AI adapts to them."
