The Digester

Windows 11 26H2 preview embeds Copilot in File Explorer

Mar 3rd 2026

Dev channel build 26300.7674 reveals Copilot integrated into File Explorer right panel and other OS areas, delivered as an activation package with a detach option and reports that the final release may allow disabling the feature.

  • Microsoft released Windows 11 26H2 preview build 26300.7674 to the Dev channel.
  • Insider reports and code references indicate Copilot will be embedded by default in File Explorer with an option to detach it into a floating window.
  • Preview builds show Copilot appearing on the taskbar, via PowerToys, and in the notification center.
  • Microsoft plans to deliver 26H2 as an activation package that enables dormant features without a full reinstall.
  • Sources say the pervasive Copilot presence may be optional and possibly disabled by default in the final 26H2 release.
  • Windows 11 has surpassed one billion users after Windows 10 support ended in October 2025, while SimilarWeb data shows Copilot's market share around 1 percent and Microsoft has not published Copilot usage figures.

Sources

myhostnews.com