How to Enable AI Actions in Windows 11 File Explorer
Microsoft is bringing AI-powered actions to File Explorer in Windows 11. With these features, you can right-click files and instantly get AI options like summarize, explain, or convert. These tools are gradually rolling out, so you may need to update Windows or join the Insider Program to see them.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to enabling AI Actions in File Explorer.
1. Update Windows 11
- Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
- Go to Windows Update on the left.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any available updates.
- Restart your PC if prompted.
2. Join the Windows Insider Program (If Needed)
If you don’t see AI Actions after updating, you may need to join the Insider Program:
- Open Settings → Windows Update → Windows Insider Program.
- Sign in with a Microsoft account.
- Choose an Insider Channel:
| Channel | Stability | Access to Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dev | Low | Fastest | Developers |
| Beta | Medium | Early | Enthusiasts |
| Release Preview | High | Slowest | IT Pros, General Users |
- After joining, check for updates again.
3. Turn On Copilot
- Right-click the taskbar.
- Select Taskbar settings.
- Toggle on Copilot (preview).
4. Use AI Actions in File Explorer
- Open File Explorer.
- Right-click a file (documents, images, videos).
- Look for new AI options like Summarize, Explain, or Convert.
If you don’t see them yet, keep checking for new updates—Microsoft is rolling out the features in stages.
5. Use Copilot Directly
When AI Actions don’t show up in the context menu, you can still use Copilot:
- Click the Copilot icon on the taskbar.
- Drag and drop your file into Copilot.
- Ask it to summarize, explain, convert, or perform other actions.
6. Troubleshooting
If AI Actions don’t appear:
- Restart your PC.
- Check for updates again.
- Use the Feedback Hub to report issues.
- Visit Microsoft support or forums for community fixes.
7. Extra Tips
- Keep updating Windows to receive the latest AI features.
- Test with different file types (DOCX, PDF, images).
- Copilot and AI Actions can be turned off in Settings anytime.
FAQs
- Which file types work? Currently, support is limited (DOCX, PDFs, and some media).
- Is it free? Most AI features are free for now, but premium features may come later.
- Copilot not showing? Check Taskbar settings and enable it.
- Are Insider builds stable? Dev is the least stable; Release Preview is safest.
Summary
Enabling AI Actions in File Explorer requires keeping Windows 11 up to date, enabling Copilot, and sometimes joining the Insider Program. Once available, you can right-click files to get AI options or use Copilot directly.
If you don’t see the features yet, be patient—Microsoft is rolling them out gradually.
