GitHub Copilot adds computer use for desktop apps on macOS and Windows

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Some of the work you want to automate lives in desktop software with no API, CLI or MCP integration. Copilot can now operate those apps directly.

Here's what you can build with it:

• Copilot reads accessible content and visual context, then clicks controls, types text and moves across applications.
• It can summarize browser notifications, update a presentation or push data through a desktop workflow.
• It asks for approval before controlling an app, and you can review or reset apps set to always allow.
• Prompts work best when they state the outcome, the apps involved and key constraints.

The feature is in public preview in Copilot CLI and the GitHub Copilot app on macOS and Windows.

One catch: macOS needs Accessibility and Screen Recording permissions, and organization-managed settings can disable the feature.

Try it: run /computer on in Copilot CLI (/computer show checks status, /computer off disables it). In the app, open Settings → Computer Use → Enable Computer Use.

Sources: github.blog · github.blog