How to disable or remove Copilot from Word (there is a solution - check 2nd edit)

Anonymous
2024-11-01T04:09:09+00:00

This morning Copilot appeared in Word. I do not have a subscription for it, nor do I want it at all. It just appeared in what must have been an update.

I have the most up-to-date word running on a desktop with Windows 11.

I need to disable Copilot. I do not want to see it in the ribbon or right in the middle of the writing space (in the image).

Please advise how to disable, remove or just stop Copilot as I can't seem to remove it. I'm downright frustrated with it and didn't ask or request it. I did not buy it or subscribe to it.

Thank you.

Leah

Edit: Found the best solution was to roll back to a previous version before it updated. I replied further down and used a method that worked for me. Best I can suggest is do that and then start updating again when they allow us to turn stupid Copilot OFF.

2nd Edit: In the newest update (including in Australia) you can now turn it off in word for windows: File -> Options -> copilot (4th option) -> untick enable.

HOORAY! IT IS OFF!!!!!!!!

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  1. Anonymous
    2025-01-28T04:16:08+00:00

    Nice job, Microsoft, on implementing AI technology to all of your users of Word. Seriously. Do corporations not have manners? Or ethics? Or... just enough money to tell the rest of us out there in the "user" world what we need. We've literally gone from purchasing a computer or laptop with Microsoft Word preloaded OR could choose to "buy" it (as in owing it to put on whatever the heck you want because, it is a free world?) to forcing people to download an annual subscription so we're cyber-linked-at-the-hip to your whims. You feed us AI garbage as if you've simply the right to do it. I refuse to have that technology when my line of business is "THINKING" for myself. Thanks for taking advantage of those who swell your coffers.

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  2. Anonymous
    2025-01-27T16:40:51+00:00

    The instructions for PC and Mac are in separate posts in this post string. If you're on a Mac, scroll and look for the post that starts with HALLELUJAH. If you're on a PC, just scroll and you will find the instructions.

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  3. Anonymous
    2025-01-27T15:59:44+00:00

    Microsoft should know what version I have as I've been paying for it long enough and up til this point I've had NO problems but now I do. All I want is for someone to tell me just how to get rid of copilot and AI (whatever they are I DON'T want nor need them in my life. PLEASE TELL ME HOW TO DO THIS?????

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  4. Anonymous
    2025-01-27T09:49:47+00:00

    You might have updated to the version we had that didn't allow you to switch it off. I'm currently on an old version of office and haven't tried these instructions yet. This has been an immensely frustrating experience!

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  5. Anonymous
    2025-01-27T09:48:22+00:00

    Thanks everyone for the continued support in this. I rolled back to an older version of office, and I haven't been game to let it update. Once I have a few hours free, I'll let it update, then attempt these controls for switching it off.

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