Review of Microsoft Copilot
Overview of Copilot’s Features
Microsoft’s Copilot has recently been revamped to provide a more engaging user experience. The latest version now features visually appealing, rounded tiles on its start page that suggest various activities. One of the standout offerings is Copilot Daily, an AI-generated podcast that covers daily events, interesting facts, and personalized topics like sports and science. For instance, it recently shared that the first balloon voyage around the world took place—a fun and informative tidbit. The voice used in the podcast is pleasant and lifelike, making it easy to listen to while you can conveniently pause, skip or rewind as necessary.
Interactive Voice Features
With the updated Copilot, users can engage by either typing their questions or utilizing a voice input feature by clicking on a microphone icon. The voice interaction is particularly noteworthy. Conversations feel akin to chatting with a knowledgeable friend, as the AI can provide answers on a wide range of topics. After speaking with Copilot, the app displays a written transcript of the conversation, which remains visible as you cease the dialogue. However, it is crucial to end the session by clicking the ‘X’ since there’s currently no way to stop the AI from listening once activated, unlike other virtual assistants such as Alexa.
Credit: Microsoft/PCMag
When initiating a conversation, users are greeted by a gentle piano tune and calming visuals of rippling water. To enhance the user experience, Copilot utilizes various technologies that not only transcribe speech into text but also analyze context, intent, and even the speaker’s mood. This advanced functionality leverages acoustic modeling to filter out background noise and accommodate different accents. The speech responses are created using neural text-to-speech algorithms for a natural flow and tone.
Image Interaction
Another engaging feature is the ability to upload or take a picture within the mobile app. The AI can describe the image and provide additional context. However, users cannot upload audio files, which could enhance functionality. Notably, Microsoft’s Azure cloud service and Google Cloud support audio capabilities, hinting that future implementations might include this feature for users.
Convenience in Conversations
Copilot has a slight edge over competitors like Google Gemini in terms of convenience. It recognizes when you finish speaking and responds automatically. In contrast, with Gemini, users must click a button to submit their input after finishing their speech. While this automatic response is not available on all platforms, it does streamline interactions and make them feel more natural. Notably, some functionalities, such as those available in ChatGPT’s paid plan and the forthcoming Alexa+ assistant, provide this seamless experience.
Generating Responses and Feedback
Copilot employs a unique method of formulating responses. Instead of merely relaying input to services like ChatGPT, it creates a metaprompt that aligns with Microsoft’s AI principles and user expectations. Following each interaction, users can evaluate the response by giving it a thumbs up or down, along with options to share or copy the information. Suggested follow-up questions appear next, which can sometimes be quite useful. Users can also access a list of previous queries on one side of the interface and share conversation links via the web.
Think Deeper Feature
One of Copilot’s most innovative features is the Think Deeper functionality. Initially exclusive to Copilot Pro subscribers, it is now available to all users. This feature uses OpenAI’s latest model, making it invaluable for coding, research, or project planning. When activated, it might take a little longer to generate a response—typically around 30 seconds but often quicker in practice. For example, when prompted to compare speech technologies across various platforms, the feature provides detailed responses arranged in numbered bullet points or even flowcharts.
Users can leave the Think Deeper mode on, which allows for more in-depth exploration of topics. This advanced AI capability serves as a robust tool for those who need comprehensive information or detailed comparisons, making it an attractive option for serious inquiries.
In summary, Copilot continues to evolve, incorporating user-friendly features and enhanced AI interactions for an enriched experience across various tasks.
