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!!!!!!!!

Microsoft 365 and Office | Install, redeem, activate | For home | Other

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  1. Anonymous
    2024-11-01T13:33:02+00:00

    Same issue - I'm using 365 on Mac and there does not appear to be any way to turn Copilot off. I do not want this. In fact, my dislike is so strong that I am already looking for alternative text editor solutions.

    I see that a perpetual license for Microsoft Office does not come with Copilot - is this really the only option for those of us who don't want generative AI shoved into our workflow without notice?

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  2. Anonymous
    2024-11-01T11:30:41+00:00

    I was able to successfully roll back to one where it doesn't appear.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3KUlOsN1IAI I followed this video and it worked :)

    Roll it back to version Version 2409 (Build 18025.20160) before they updated. Then we can wait until their update allows you to turn it off.

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  4. Anonymous
    2024-11-01T11:03:56+00:00

    I am having the same issue. It was just there. I am a subscriber and I should have been given the option before it being included or at the very least an option to disable it. I use Microsoft word for University studies and I am at risk of academic misconduct for having Copilot as it is AI.

    Extremely stressful situation to be in right now as I am frantically emailing my university about it, searching for answers online and now replying here.

    Grrrr

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  5. Anonymous
    2024-11-01T11:02:50+00:00

    I do have a personal subscription, but I never wanted or desired a subscription to Copilot. I will admit that the roll back to a previous version that you've described here is a little too advanced for me. Could you break down the steps a little more for exactly what I should put into it?

    The build I'm on is listed as: Version 2410 Build 16.0.18129.20100

    I really am very desperate to remove the "Draft with Copilot" icon on the left side of the writing screen and its prompts as I'm desperately struggling with it triggering my Autism. I can't belief they would force us to use this with absolutely no option to turn it off. It really isn't a 'gift', its a curse. A terrible one, especially with people like me sensitive to change and movement when writing or reading in word.

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