Microsoft injects AI into its Windows Explorer under the name “AI actions”. Users can now edit images or summarize documents more quickly.
With the introduction of AI actions in Explorer, users can now perform tasks on files more quickly and easily without opening them first. Various AI-driven functions are available via the right-click context menu, such as editing images and summarizing documents.
Editing images
Microsoft is currently testing new image actions in the latest Dev Channel builds of Windows 11. These actions include “Bing visual search” which searches for similar images on the internet and a function for blurring backgrounds or removing objects or backgrounds. These actions open the Photos App or Paint respectively, where users can perform the edits.
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Expansion to files
In the coming weeks, AI actions will be expanded to Microsoft 365 files, such as Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and PDF. With the “Summarize” option, Copilot can automatically generate an overview of documents stored on OneDrive or SharePoint, without needing to open the file.
Additionally, there’s a “Create a FAQ” function that converts complex information into a clearly structured list of questions and answers. This can be useful for knowledge bases or meeting preparations, for example.
Subscription required
To use the new AI actions for Microsoft 365 files, a Microsoft 365 subscription with Copilot is required. Users must also participate in the Microsoft 365 Insider program and be in the beta update channel of Windows. Currently, support for business Microsoft Entra ID accounts is available, while consumer support will be rolled out at a later stage.