TLDR:
– Microsoft is expanding access to its Copilot virtual assistant, offering it to users of its Office suite of productivity applications and Microsoft 365 subscribers.
– The expansion is part of Microsoft’s focus on generative AI, which has the potential to transform computing systems, cloud services, productivity software, and internet search.
Microsoft is bringing its AI-powered Copilot assistant to small businesses and consumers, expanding access to its generative AI capabilities. Copilot, which was popularized by OpenAI’s ChatGPT, uses natural language prompts to generate original content, such as text, images, and videos. By offering Copilot to a wider user base, Microsoft hopes to offset the costs associated with building and running the necessary computing infrastructure. The company sees generative AI as a key part of its future identity and aims to capitalize on the growing demand for these capabilities in various sectors. Microsoft’s Copilot is now available to subscribers of its Office suite of productivity applications and Microsoft 365, with different pricing options depending on the subscription plan. Additionally, Microsoft is launching a Copilot Pro add-on for Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscribers, which provides priority access to the latest AI models and the ability to customize chatbots. The company is also introducing a Copilot mobile application for Android and iOS users.