Now, you have the option to set Microsoft Copilot as your default digital assistant on Android, replacing Google Assistant or Gemini.
This functionality is accessible with the latest beta version of the Copilot app, currently available on the Google Play Store.
However, it’s important to note that the digital assistant feature is still in its early stages and requires further refinement.
Microsoft is aggressively promoting its Copilot AI across various platforms and services, including Bing search, Office, Windows 11 and 10, and even the Edge browser. With its presence on numerous platforms, Copilot is swiftly becoming ubiquitous in users’ digital experiences. Despite its longstanding availability on Android through the Copilot app, Microsoft is now aiming to supplant Google Assistant on Android phones, signaling a strategic expansion of its AI ecosystem.
According to a recent post by Mishaal Rehman on X, the latest beta version 27.9.420225014 for Microsoft Copilot introduces the ability to set it as the default assistant app on Android. Similar to replacing Google Assistant with Gemini AI, this update enables users to trigger Copilot from any screen by long-pressing the power button or swiping up from the bottom corners of their phone.
However, upon activating Copilot AI, it launches its main activity page instead of a floating UI, as depicted in the screenshots above. Additionally, it does not listen to your voice automatically, as observed during testing. Instead, you must tap the mic icon or manually type out your query, which may be perceived as unintuitive.
Mishaal, in his X post, also highlighted that the Copilot app lacks the API necessary to capture screenshots of the content on your current page. While Microsoft may be addressing these issues before the stable version’s release, the app is currently quite basic in its functionality.
How to Set Microsoft Copilot as Default Assistant on Android
If you’re keen to give it a try, you can join the Copilot beta program from the Play Store, install the app, and then follow these steps to set it as your default assistant.
Once you’ve installed the app, navigate to the Settings app on your device. Then, proceed to Apps -> Default apps -> Digital Assistant app. From there, tap on Google at the top of the list, as illustrated in the image below.
On the subsequent page, choose Copilot and confirm your selection by tapping OK in the confirmation pop-up. This will designate Microsoft Copilot as your new AI digital assistant.
As an Android user, I’m glad I have options to replace my default assistant with different AI chatbots. iPhone users are limited to Siri.
While I’m not a big fan of Copilot due to its sluggishness, if Microsoft resolves the current issues, I might consider it as my top assistant. Gemini has replaced Google Assistant, and ChatGPT is close behind. With Copilot now offering digital assistant support, the competition among AI chatbots will be intriguing to watch.
Returning to the topic, are you considering using Copilot as your new digital assistant on Android? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
