AI-generated, human-reviewed.
If AI features like Copilot and Recall are cluttering your Windows 11 experience, several tools and settings can help you take back control—right now. On Hands-On Windows, Speaker A outlined the best current methods, their limitations, and tips for anyone who wants a more familiar, less AI-driven desktop.
Why Windows 11 Has So Much AI—and Why You Might Want Less
Microsoft has rapidly integrated artificial intelligence into Windows 11, with features like Copilot, Recall, and AI additions to built-in apps such as Paint, Photos, and Notepad. While some users appreciate these capabilities, many find them unwanted or intrusive. There's strong demand for reliable ways to turn these off or uninstall them, whether for performance, privacy, or simplicity.
Quick Summary of Debloating Tools
Win11 Debloat is Speaker A's favorite all-in-one utility for removing bloatware and disabling AI in Windows 11. Other tools, like Winslop, exist but none are yet complete. These tools let you:
- Uninstall AI-powered apps like Copilot
- Disable background AI processes
- Remove or limit some AI capabilities in built-in apps (though not all)
- Control new AI features rolling out to "Copilot Plus" PCs
However, not every AI function can be totally removed yet, as Microsoft keeps adding and changing features. Some AI elements, especially inside the Photos app, are currently not removable without uninstalling the whole app.
How to Disable or Remove Key AI Features
Removing Copilot
In Win11 Debloat, select "show only installed apps," check Copilot, and uninstall it. If your PC also shows Microsoft 365 Copilot, look for the Office Hub app (it has evolved to become the Microsoft 365 Copilot app).
Disabling Recall and Other AI Services
On Copilot Plus PCs, you may see options for Recall and "Click to Do." Recall is typically off by default but can be disabled through debloat utilities or the Windows Features Control Panel. Removing Click to Do is possible but not generally recommended, as Speaker A finds it useful.
Built-in Apps: Paint, Notepad, Photos
- Paint: Some AI features can be disabled with Win11 Debloat, but removal isn't always complete.
- Notepad: The Copilot/AI button can be toggled directly in the app's menu without extra utilities.
- Photos: No option exists to remove or disable AI; uninstalling the app and using alternatives is the only workaround.
Microsoft Edge's AI Additions
In Edge, you can manage AI features via:
- Settings > AI Innovations: Toggle all new AI options off.
- Settings > Appearance: Disable Copilot in the sidebar and "Copilot Vision."
- Consider alternatives: If you dislike Edge's embedded AI, use web versions of ChatGPT, Anthropic Claude, or Google Gemini, or add extensions for other AI providers.
What This Means for You
If you want a less AI-heavy Windows 11, you must combine tools like Win11 Debloat, in-app settings, and the standard "Installed Apps" menu. The process isn't always straightforward—sometimes features can't be fully removed, and new AI tools arrive with every major update. Utilities are improving, but full AI removal will likely take time as Microsoft's AI roadmap unfolds.
Key Takeaways
- Win11 Debloat provides the simplest way to remove most major AI components, including Copilot and Recall.
- Not every AI feature can be fully disabled (especially within some apps); the Photos app is the main example.
- Always create a system restore point before making changes.
- Disabling AI features can mean more stability, privacy, or speed, at the cost of losing new capabilities.
- If you want to use different image or note apps, uninstalling AI-powered default apps is usually safe.
The Bottom Line
Uninstalling or disabling AI in Windows 11 is possible, but requires persistence and a mix of trusted utilities and settings. As Microsoft rolls out more AI features, expect removal tools to improve and new options to appear. For now, a little effort can get you most of the way to a debloated, classic Windows experience.
Subscribe for more tips and the latest guides:
https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-windows/episodes/183