Microsoft is giving Copilot a major boost to keep pace in the fast-moving AI chatbot arena. The update introduces features already seen in competitors like Gemini and ChatGPT, focusing on enhanced memory, task automation, visual understanding, and research capabilities.
- Copilot‘s improved memory allows it to personalize responses based on user data. The AI can recall past preferences and purchases, which raises privacy considerations. Microsoft promises enhanced privacy options in the Copilot dashboard, enabling users to control the types of information the AI remembers or to opt-out entirely.
- Copilot Actions transforms the chatbot into an AI agent capable of performing tasks such as booking hotels and purchasing gifts. Launch partners include 1-800-Flowers.com, Booking.com, Expedia, Kayak, OpenTable, Priceline, Tripadvisor, Skyscanner, Viator, and Vrbo. This feature streamlines online tasks by automatically filling forms with saved information.
- Copilot Vision expands to Windows, Android, and iOS apps, enabling real-time image analysis through the device camera. Users can point their camera at an object to have Copilot identify it and answer questions. The Windows app can analyze on-screen content and interact with files and apps.
- Copilot Canvas, akin to a blend of ChatGPT Canvas, ChatGPT Projects, and Notion, provides a centralized hub for organizing thoughts and notes. Previously available to Microsoft 365 Copilot business users, this feature is now accessible to individual users for content creation, idea exploration, and research projects.
- Copilot now generates AI-hosted podcasts, a feature already available on platforms like Gemini and NotebookLM. Users can choose from Copilot’s suggestions based on their interests or provide specific documents and websites for content prompts. The podcasts are interactive, offering an alternative to text-based conversations.
- Copilot Deep Research mirrors similar tools in ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gemini, allowing users to specify a research topic and have Copilot scour the web for relevant information. The AI compiles a curated report, taking three to six minutes to complete. Copilot Pro users have unlimited access, while others are limited to five Deep Research queries per month.
- Copilot Shopping gains enhancements to help users find the best online deals. The chatbot can research the details of items, compare them, and provide direct links to purchase. Users can also track price fluctuations and receive alerts when prices drop.
- Copilot Search directly competes with Google AI Overviews and ChatGPT Search by offering “intelligently curated information” to minimize misleading content. The feature presents information with citations and source boxes. Testing revealed accurate information retrieval, although source selection may require further refinement.
The updates are rolling out over the “coming weeks and months,” varying by “platform, market and language.”
