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AI image generation

How to Use Microsoft Copilot to Generate and Edit Images

Create images in Copilot chat with a text prompt, or use the Copilot app’s Create tools to generate or edit images. Learn how to refine prompts, upload images responsibly, and check account access and usage terms.

By ThatPainter Team 6 min read

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To generate an image in Microsoft Copilot, describe what you want in Copilot chat and submit the prompt; you can then request focused changes in the same conversation. For more visual controls, use the Copilot app’s Create section to make an image or edit an upload. Menus and access vary by product surface and account.

Choose a workflow

Workflow Best for What it offers
Copilot chat Generating from a prompt or requesting conversational edits to an uploaded image Describe the result, upload through the plus or Open control, and ask follow-up questions in the conversation.
Create in the Copilot app Generating from a prompt or template with visual options May offer reference images, styles, colors or brand settings, image shapes, and further refinement.
Create editor Editing an existing image with visual tools May provide crop, background, enhancement, filters, text, visuals, markup, layers, adjustments, and erase tools.

The controls shown depend on your Copilot surface and account. Microsoft says Create access and account requirements can vary by context; check the options available to your account rather than assuming one rule applies everywhere.

Generate an image in Copilot chat

  1. Open a Copilot chat experience and sign in if prompted.
  2. Describe the image you want in the prompt box. State the subject and add its setting, action, composition, mood, palette, and style.
  3. Submit the prompt and review the result.
  4. Ask for a focused change in a follow-up message if needed. Keep the conversation open and specify what should change and what should stay the same.

Microsoft Support advises that detailed prompts help communicate specific styles and details. For example: “Create a photorealistic image of a small ceramic greenhouse on a rainy city rooftop at dusk, viewed from a low angle, with warm light inside and muted blue-gray surroundings.” This is an example, not a promise of a particular result.

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  • Magic Trackpad pairs automatically with your Mac, so you can get to work straightaway.
  • The rechargeable battery will power it for about a month or more between charges.

Use Create to generate an image

  1. Open the Microsoft Copilot app and select Create.
  2. Choose Create an image.
  3. Enter a description or start from a template, if one is available.
  4. Optionally add a reference image and choose from the available style, color, or brand options.
  5. Choose an image shape or size if the controls are shown, then create the image.
  6. Copy or download the result, or continue refining it with the prompt and editor tools available to you.

Microsoft documents Square (1024 × 1024), Portrait (1024 × 1536), and Wide (1536 × 1024) options for this Create workflow. Controls and availability may vary. Microsoft’s Copilot app guidance says Create requires an eligible Microsoft 365 subscription; its broader Create guidance also describes access for some work or school accounts without a Microsoft Copilot license, with quality and performance varying by availability. Verify the current access shown for your account.

How to edit an existing image

Edit through Copilot chat

  1. Open a Copilot conversation.
  2. Select the plus or Open control, then choose Add images or files.
  3. Choose an image from your device and upload it.
  4. Describe the change you want, including details that should remain unchanged.
  5. Review the result and ask for further changes in the same conversation if needed.

For example, ask Copilot to remove background people while keeping the foreground subject, lighting, and framing unchanged. Clear, focused requests make it easier to communicate the edit you want.

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  • DUAL DEVICE CONTROL: Connects two devices at a time via Bluetooth; press the mode switch button to jump between the two devices
  • SLIM DESIGN: Slim portable design with colored indicator lights for enhanced functionality
  • RECHARGEABLE BATTERY: USB-C port for recharging the lithium battery
  • DEVICE COMPATIBILITY: Compatible with Windows OS; not compatible with macOS, Chrome OS, or Linux

Edit in the Create editor

  1. In the Copilot app’s Create section, choose Edit an image.
  2. Upload the image you want to edit.
  3. Select the available editing tools, such as crop, background changes, enhancement, filters, text, visuals, markup, layers, adjustments, or erase.
  4. Review the result and save or copy it when you are finished.

The toolset shown may vary. The chat route is conversational, while the Create editor provides dedicated visual controls.

Write prompts that are easier to refine

Use clear everyday language. Put the main goal first, then add relevant visible details. A useful structure is:

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  • Magic Trackpad is wireless and rechargeable, and it includes the full range of Multi-Touch gestures and Force Touch technology.
  • Sensors underneath the trackpad surface detect subtle differences in the amount of pressure you apply, bringing more functionality to your fingertips and enabling a deeper connection to your content.
  • It features a large edge-to-edge glass surface area, making scrolling and swiping through your favourite content more productive and comfortable than ever.
  • Magic Trackpad pairs automatically with your Mac, so you can get to work straightaway.
  • The rechargeable battery will power it for about a month or more between charges.

Create a [type of image] of [subject and action] in [setting]. Use [style], [lighting and mood], and [colors]. Compose it as a [view or layout], while keeping [details to preserve or space to leave empty].

For an edit, say what to change and what to preserve. If the first result misses something, follow up with one targeted adjustment at a time rather than changing many requirements at once.

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  1. Check that the main subject and action are right.
  2. Adjust framing, position, or composition.
  3. Refine the style, palette, and lighting.
  4. Remove distracting elements or simplify the background.
  5. Review the finished image, including small details and any wording.

Review text and image details before sharing

Generated images may contain spelling errors or wording in the wrong language. Microsoft warns users to check generated text. For a layout that needs accurate wording, make the image and then add or correct the copy in the editor. Inspect faces, hands, logos, and other important details too; a generated result is not a guarantee of accuracy.

Upload images responsibly

  • Rights and permission: Microsoft says uploaded images should be original or used with the necessary rights and permissions. Get permission from people depicted in an image before uploading it.
  • Retention: Microsoft says generated and uploaded images are available for no longer than 18 months, and may be deleted earlier by deleting them from conversation history.
  • Use and controls: Microsoft says images may be used to improve product safety and functionality, and describes an option to opt out of conversation activity, including uploaded images, being used for model training. Check the current privacy controls for your account before uploading sensitive material.
  • Provenance: Microsoft says Copilot-generated images carry C2PA content credentials, which can be viewed through the Content Credentials site. Provenance metadata does not establish that an image is factually accurate.
  • Commercial use: Do not assume one set of terms applies to every Copilot surface. Microsoft’s Designer FAQ describes Designer as licensed for personal, non-commercial use with a Microsoft account. Check the terms that apply to the specific service and intended use.

Why Copilot may not generate or edit an image

What you see What to check What to try
No image option or editing controls You may be in a different Copilot surface, or the feature may not be available to your account. Check the Create section or chat controls available in your account.
The request is refused The prompt may conflict with content or safety restrictions. Rephrase it around an allowed subject and remove problematic details.
The result misses your instructions The prompt may be broad or contain competing requirements. State the main goal first and request one focused adjustment at a time.
An uploaded image cannot be used The image or request may be unsupported, or you may lack the rights or permission to use it. Check the interface guidance and use an image you own or are authorized to upload.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I create an image in Copilot?

In Copilot chat, describe the image in the prompt box and submit it. Alternatively, open Create in the Copilot app, choose Create an image, and use the available prompt, style, and shape options.

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  • Windows Only: The Large Wired Trackpad for Windows10/11 is compatible with Windows 11, Windows 10, PC, laptops and desktop computers. Note: Not compatible with Mac/Chrome OS/Linux. Not recommended for use on other systems. Some touchpad gestures or functions may be missing
  • Convenient left and right physical clicks: The wired trackpad supports physical clicks of the left and right buttons at the bottom to realize the left and right mouse button functions. It also supports full-area single-click to realize the left mouse button function and two-finger single-tap for right mouse clicks, which is convenient for you to select text/documents and drag large areas easily
  • How to drag files and select text: Double-click with one finger + hold/slide to drag files or select text
  • Multiple gestures support: The touchpad supports multiple gestures and supports up to four-finger operation, which is smoother than the laptop touchpad operation. Fast and sensitive response, at your fingertips. Multiple functions, including smooth screen clicks, scrolling up and down pages, pinching to enlarge photos, etc.
  • How to adjust the touchpad cursor speed: Open "Windows Settings" → "Bluetooth and other devices" → "Touchpad". Adjust the "Cursor Speed" slider to suit your preference (slower ← → faster)

Can Copilot edit a photo I already have?

Yes. In chat, upload an image using the plus or Open control and describe the change. In the Create editor, choose Edit an image and use the available visual tools.

How do I upload an image to Copilot?

In a chat, select the plus or Open control, choose Add images or files, and select an image. In Create, choose Edit an image to upload an image into the editor. Use only images you own or have permission to use, and get permission from people depicted.

What should I write in an image prompt?

State the subject and action first, then add the setting, composition, style, mood, colors, and important details. For edits, name what should change and what should stay the same.

Can I use Copilot-generated images commercially?

Terms depend on the Copilot service and account. Microsoft’s Designer FAQ describes Designer as for personal, non-commercial use with a Microsoft account; check the terms for the specific service you use before relying on an image for commercial work.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Why does text in my generated image look wrong?

Microsoft warns that generated wording may have spelling errors or appear in the wrong language. Add or correct important copy in an editor and proofread the final image before sharing.

Quick Recap

SaleBestseller No. 1
Apple Magic Trackpad - White Multi-Touch Surface ​​​​​​​
Apple Magic Trackpad - White Multi-Touch Surface ​​​​​​​
Magic Trackpad pairs automatically with your Mac, so you can get to work straightaway.; The rechargeable battery will power it for about a month or more between charges.
$115.99
Bestseller No. 2
Amazon Basics Multi-Touch Trackpad with Dual Device Control, Wireless Touchpad for Windows PC (Not Support MacOS), Rechargeable, 6.4-inch, Black
Amazon Basics Multi-Touch Trackpad with Dual Device Control, Wireless Touchpad for Windows PC (Not Support MacOS), Rechargeable, 6.4-inch, Black
SLIM DESIGN: Slim portable design with colored indicator lights for enhanced functionality
$31.14
SaleBestseller No. 3
Apple Magic Trackpad - Black Multi-Touch Surface ​​​​​​​
Apple Magic Trackpad - Black Multi-Touch Surface ​​​​​​​
Magic Trackpad pairs automatically with your Mac, so you can get to work straightaway.; The rechargeable battery will power it for about a month or more between charges.
$130.00

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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