While the introduction of Copilot in Windows 11 has garnered mixed reactions, a segment of users on older, unsupported versions of Windows is eager to experience Microsoft’s AI assistant. These users are curious to understand the buzz surrounding this innovative feature, even if it means stepping outside the bounds of official support.
For those on legacy systems such as Windows XP, Vista, or Windows 8.1, Microsoft has not made Copilot readily available. However, a third-party initiative known as Oldpilot has emerged, allowing users to run Copilot on older machines. This project, which emphasizes its independence from Microsoft, provides a unique opportunity for users to engage with the AI assistant.
Requirements for Windows 2000, XP, and Vista
To successfully install and run Copilot on systems like Windows 2000, XP, and Vista, users must meet specific requirements. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- Palemoon browser installed on the computer at
C:\Program Files\palemoon\palemoon.exe
(Download it here). - IrfanView installed on the computer (Download it here).
- Windows 2000, XP, or Vista installed on the computer.
- Internet access.
Requirements for Windows 7 and 8.1
For those using Windows 7 and 8.1, the prerequisites are slightly different:
- Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge installed on the computer.
- IrfanView installed on the computer (Download it here).
- Windows 7 or 8.1 installed on the computer.
- Internet access.
Once you have ensured that your system meets these prerequisites, you can download and install the desired version of Copilot from the Oldpilot website. As with any third-party software installation, it is prudent to back up important files beforehand to mitigate potential issues.
In our testing on a virtualized PC running Windows XP, Copilot functioned smoothly, although individual experiences may vary. This initiative opens a new avenue for users keen to explore the capabilities of AI, even on older platforms.