How to use Copilot AI on Linux
Microsoft Copilot is one of the easier AI tools to use on Microsoft Windows. You can access it from the desktop or the web browser. However, if you use Linux, you’ll find that Microsoft has yet to release an official Copilot app that can be installed on your distribution of choice.
Never fear, as there are ways to get Copilot on your desktop. Let me show you two such ways.
Option one: Use the Copilot extension for Chrome
What you’ll need for this option: The only things you’ll need for this method are a Chromium-based web browser and a valid Microsoft account.
The first thing to do is open your Chromium-based web browser and point it to this unofficial Copilot extension in the Chrome Web Store.
Installing the Copilot extension on Opera.
Jack Wallen/ZDNET
On the extension page, click Add to Chrome (or Opera, or whatever Chromium-based browser you use). Allow the extension to install.
You don’t have to pin the extension but it certainly makes it easier to access.
Jack Wallen/ZDNET
If your browser allows it, click the Extension icon in the toolbar and, from the drop-down, click the pin icon for the Copilot extension. This will make sure the Copilot extension is easily accessed from the browser toolbar.
When the Copilot window opens, if you haven’t already logged into your Microsoft account, do so now.
Jack Wallen/ZDNET
You should now have a small window open with Copilot. You can then use the AI service as needed. When you’re finished, close the Copilot window.
Option 2: Use Copilot’s web app
The next option creates a Copilot web app that can be opened from your desktop menu. Again, you’ll need a Chromium-based browser and a valid Microsoft account.
Getting ready to install Copilot as an app on Linux.
Jack Wallen/ZDNET
After Copilot loads, click the browser menu and then click “Cast, save, and share” > “Install page as app.” Depending on the browser you use, that menu entry may be named something different. I’m demonstrating on Chromium.
You can name the app anything you want.
Jack Wallen/ZDNET
On the resulting pop-up, give the app a name and click Install.
I actually prefer the extension version but this option can be accessed without the browser open.
Jack Wallen/ZDNET
If you click on your desktop menu, you should now see an entry for Copilot. Click that entry and Copilot will open in a single, minimal window without the usual browser toolbars and other features, so it looks like a native app on your desktop.
Conclusion
And that’s all there is to getting Microsoft Copilot on Linux. You now have two options to choose from, both of which will allow you to access the AI service without having to use a Windows machine.
FAQs
Q: Do I need a Chromium-based browser to use Copilot on Linux?
A: Yes, you will need a Chromium-based browser to use Copilot on Linux.
Q: Can I use Copilot on any Linux distribution?
A: Yes, Copilot can be used on any Linux distribution that supports Chromium-based browsers.
Q: Is Copilot available for free?
A: Yes, Copilot is available for free, but you will need a valid Microsoft account to use it.
Q: Can I use Copilot on multiple devices?
A: Yes, you can use Copilot on multiple devices, as long as you have a valid Microsoft account and a Chromium-based browser installed on each device.
