Microsoft’s AI assistant Copilot finally opened to individual consumer use and for use by enterprises on January 16 this year. Microsoft is expanding the accessibility of its AI assistant, by introducing a new consumer version priced at $20 per month. This version grants users access to advanced features, including the latest ChatGPT technology and the ability to create images, which is developed by OpenAI. Notably, customers who have a cloud subscription to Microsoft Office can make use of Copilot within popular Office applications such as Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Demand and accessibility of AI service/ Copilot
Microsoft is eliminating the previously imposed 300-subscription minimum for its enterprise service as part of a move to accommodate a broader user base. This decision comes in response to a surge in demand for AI support within Office products.
Executives at Microsoft have highlighted the remarkable interest in Copilot. They have also drawn parallels to the high demand observed during the release of Windows 95 software nearly three decades ago. By removing the required 300- subscriptions for enterprises, Microsoft is opening up the AI service for small and medium businesses as well that are eager to try out the service and so that AI use can be democratized.
The new and enhanced service is now called Copilot for Microsoft 365 and has undergone testing since March and was made widely available in November.
Differentiating consumer service from Chat GPT
Microsoft is set to differentiate its consumer service, Copilot Pro, by offering similar features to OpenAI’s ChatGPT Plus at the same price point. However, Microsoft also offers the added benefit of seamless integration with Office applications. Additionally, the company has plans to introduce a builder tool that will empower individuals to create their own Copilots tailored for specific topics.
This announcement was made ahead of the World Economic Forum in Davos, where Microsoft’s CEO, Satya Nadella, is scheduled to speak in an interview with Bloomberg. The move reflects Microsoft’s commitment to democratizing access to AI capabilities and adapting to the evolving needs of its user base.
Microsoft highlight that its commitment was towards global empowerment through Copilot, revealing significant milestones with over 5 billion chats and images processed. The AI companion has garnered preference from early adopters and individuals seeking personal use, contributing to its widespread usage. Microsoft also claimed that it values user feedback to continuously enhance Copilot’s capabilities.
Legal Challenges
Despite these achievements, legal challenges loom over both Microsoft and OpenAI. Lawsuits allege that their AI products were trained using unlawfully scraped copyrighted content and media. The ongoing legal proceedings have thrown light on the complexities and controversies surrounding the development and deployment of advanced AI technologies in today’s legal landscape.
