Microsoft 365 Copilot is an artificial intelligence assistant feature for Microsoft 365 applications and services. It was announced by Microsoft on March 16, 2023, and is integrated into Microsoft 365 in two ways. The tool builds on OpenAI’s advanced GPT-4 large language models (LLMs) and incorporates Microsoft Graph to convert user text input into content in Microsoft 365 apps, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams. Copilot is more than OpenAI’s ChatGPT embedded into Microsoft 365, it’s a sophisticated processing and orchestration engine working behind the scenes to combine the power of LLMs, including GPT-4, with the Microsoft 365 apps and business data in the Microsoft Graph. Copilot is integrated into Microsoft 365 and automatically inherits all the company’s valuable security, compliance, and privacy policies.
Microsoft announced during the Build 2023 conference that it is adding the AI assistant Copilot to Windows 11, and the Windows Copilot service is directly integrated with Windows 11 and users can access it through the taskbar. Copilot is designed to work alongside users, embedded in the Microsoft 365 apps they use every day, freeing them to focus on the most important work and less on the busy work. Copilot can help users unleash creativity, unlock productivity, and uplevel skills.
New research from the 2023 Work Trend Index shows that many employees are ready for AI to reshape work as we go from AI on “autopilot” to AI as copilot. Copilot in Whiteboard will make Microsoft Teams meetings and brainstorms more creative and effective, and using natural language, users can ask Copilot to create a new whiteboard, add a sticky note, or even draw a diagram. Copilot in Viva Learning will use a natural language chat interface to help users create a personalized learning journey, including designing upskilling paths, discovering relevant learning resources, and scheduling time for assigned trainings.
