LG confirmed that Microsoft has decided to end support for the Copilot feature on smart TVs, in a move expected to be completed before the end of 2026. This confirmation came via a notice that appeared to users of LG devices running webOS, explaining that the feature is no longer available or may stop working soon, although Microsoft has not yet specified the exact date for the final shutdown.
Retreat from the "Digital Companion" Experience
The Copilot feature on TVs functioned as an AI-powered assistant, where users could ask questions based on the content displayed on the screen, receive recommendations for movies and shows, and engage in general chat. However, this feature faced widespread criticism from users after it was mandatorily installed on LG and Samsung TVs during the past year, sparking resentment over the imposition of features that consumers did not actively request.
Why Does This News Matter?
This decision is not merely the discontinuation of a technical feature, but rather a reflection of a radical change in Microsoft's philosophy toward artificial intelligence. Instead of attempting to integrate Copilot as a "digital companion" for personal and entertainment use in homes, the company is now focusing heavily on transforming it into a professional tool to increase productivity in work environments.
This shift was also embodied in the integration of the Microsoft 365 Copilot application with the consumer version under one umbrella, reducing the space allocated to simple personal applications. Thus, the Copilot feature on TVs is moving out of Microsoft's scope of interest, as it no longer aligns with its new goal of enhancing work efficiency and institutional tasks.
What Does This Mean for Users?
For smart screen users, this trend means that the interactive AI features associated with Copilot will gradually disappear. While the average user may not feel a direct impact due to the low usage of this feature, the move confirms the trend of major companies toward allocating advanced AI capabilities to more profitable and productive sectors, rather than consuming them in home entertainment devices.