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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  2. Anonymous
    2025-01-16T23:29:04+00:00

    There is no entry in my Options that allows me to turn off Copilot.

    I did disable Copilot via the group editor, but that hasn't removed the annoying icon that appears in the margin every time I create a new paragraph. When I click the icon it tells me I need to turn on connected experience in order to use it. Of course, the whole reason I turned off the connected experience was so I wouldn't be stalked by Copilot. It's like a puppy that gets tangled up in your feet. Only not nearly so cute.

    It's hard to believe this was ever considered a good idea. Probably at a meeting where too much caffeine was consumed. Aarrggh!

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  3. Anonymous
    2025-01-16T23:12:01+00:00

    I only get "Collapse Co-Pilot Summary automatically"

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  4. Anonymous
    2025-01-16T22:55:31+00:00

    This also helped me, but I have found it only works for Word. To remove it from Excel and OneNote, I had to go to customize ribbon and remove the Assistance, but the digbat remains in OneNote.

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  5. Anonymous
    2025-01-16T22:36:19+00:00

    Agreed! It is an OUTRAGE that Microsoft has automatically added AI into MS Word and is scanning our documents, as well as forcing us to use it.

    I'm about ready to cancel my MS365 subscription and use a different tool for word processing. UGH.

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