Typing “my mouse pointer is too small” or “how do I control my PC by voice” into the Windows 11 Settings app now triggers a direct, AI-powered response. Microsoft’s latest update introduces an on-device AI agent designed to interpret natural language requests and automate system adjustments, starting with Copilot+ PCs running Snapdragon chips, and expanding soon to AMD and Intel models.

This shift targets a longstanding pain point: users often struggle to locate and adjust specific Windows settings buried under layers of menus. The new AI agent addresses this by allowing users to describe their issue or desired change in plain English. The agent then locates the relevant setting, recommends steps, and—if granted permission—applies the change automatically. This approach reduces the time and frustration associated with manual searches and configuration, especially for less technical users.

How the AI Agent Works in Windows 11 Settings

Microsoft’s AI agent operates locally, leveraging an on-device model to process user queries without sending data to the cloud. This design choice improves privacy and reduces latency. Here’s how the process unfolds:

  • Users type a request or describe a problem in the new search bar at the top of the Settings app.
  • The AI agent interprets the intent and identifies the corresponding system setting or troubleshooting step.
  • Recommended actions appear, and users can review and approve the suggested changes.
  • With user approval, the agent applies the adjustment—such as resizing the mouse pointer, enabling voice control, or toggling accessibility features—without requiring the user to navigate deeper into menus.

For example, entering “increase text size” prompts the agent to find the display settings for text scaling and offers a one-click solution. This speeds up configuration tasks that previously required multiple steps and prior knowledge of Windows’ layout.

AI Agent in Windows 11 Settings. Source: Microsoft

Deployment and System Requirements

The feature is currently rolling out to Windows Insiders on Copilot+ PCs powered by Snapdragon processors. Support for AMD and Intel Copilot+ devices is planned for the near future. The AI agent is initially limited to English language inputs, with broader language support expected later.

To access the AI agent, users must:

  • Be enrolled in the Windows Insider Beta channel.
  • Run Windows 11 Preview Build 26120.3964 (KB5058496) or later on a compatible Copilot+ PC.
  • Set the device’s primary language to English.

Advanced users can enable the agent manually using ViVeTool with the following command:

vivetool /enable /id:53427769,57244651

This command activates the AI agent in Settings for eligible Insider builds.

Other AI-Driven Upgrades in Windows 11

Microsoft’s update also brings several AI-powered features to other core apps, focusing on workflow efficiency and creative tasks:

  • Photos App: Gains dynamic lighting controls, allowing users to adjust the lighting of images with up to three virtual light sources.
  • Snipping Tool: Adds a feature to accurately crop to on-screen content, a text extractor for pulling text from screenshots, and a color picker for sampling exact color values.
  • File Explorer: Introduces AI actions such as summarizing content or editing images directly from the context menu when right-clicking files.
  • Copilot Vision: An upcoming capability will let the Copilot assistant “see” app windows and browser tabs to provide more contextual help.

These tools are part of a broader push to make Windows 11 more responsive to user intent and less reliant on manual navigation or memorizing settings locations.

Security and Privacy Considerations

Microsoft’s AI agent processes requests locally, which limits exposure of personal data to external servers. However, automating system changes raises concerns about unintended modifications or new attack vectors. Microsoft addresses this by requiring explicit user permission before any setting is changed. The company also restricts the initial rollout to a small subset of devices—Copilot+ PCs in the Insider program—to gather feedback and monitor for issues.

Microsoft’s AI agent in Windows 11 Settings marks a practical step toward making PC configuration faster and less confusing. As the rollout expands, users can expect more natural ways to interact with their devices and fewer obstacles to customizing Windows to fit their needs.