Microsoft Introduces New AI Features for a Customized Copilot Experience
Microsoft Introduces New AI Features for Copilot
On Friday, Microsoft announced a series of major updates to its Copilot platform during a livestream event celebrating the company’s 50th anniversary. This event marked a new chapter in Microsoft’s commitment to creating what it refers to as a “true AI companion,” designed to cater to the individual needs, preferences, and daily routines of users.
The livestream featured all three of Microsoft’s CEOs—Bill Gates, Steve Ballmer, and Satya Nadella—highlighting the significance of the announcements. The new features aim to enhance the personalization of artificial intelligence, introducing elements such as memory, automation, visual recognition, and better content organization. Originally launched in 2023, Copilot has evolved from a basic AI assistant into what Microsoft describes as “your AI companion.”
Memory and Personalization
One of the standout features is the introduction of Memory, which allows Copilot to remember specific user details such as favorite foods, upcoming events, and hobbies. Over time, this feature creates a user profile that enables more relevant suggestions and timely reminders. Notably, users will have complete control over what Copilot retains, as they can manage or delete information via a privacy dashboard.
In addition to Memory, Microsoft is exploring new ways to personalize the Copilot experience. Users will have the option to customize the appearance of their AI assistant, adding an interactive and visually appealing layer to the technology.
Automation with Actions
Another significant update is the introduction of Actions. This feature allows users to request Copilot to perform tasks on their behalf using simple chat prompts. Users can book event tickets, make dining reservations, and even send gifts through integrations with services like Expedia, OpenTable, and Skyscanner.
Copilot Vision and Mobile Availability
Initially available only on the web, Copilot Vision has now expanded to mobile devices and Windows. This feature enables users to interact with their environment through their smartphone camera, offering real-time analysis of photos and video. For instance, it can identify houseplants or provide interior design recommendations. The Vision tool will first be accessible to Windows Insiders, with plans for a wider rollout in the coming weeks.
Enhanced Copilot Experience on Windows
The new Copilot application for Windows allows users to access the AI assistant across various applications and browser tabs more efficiently, utilizing keyboard shortcuts and voice commands.
Organizing Tools: Pages and Podcasts
Microsoft has also introduced a feature called Pages, which helps users turn their notes and ideas into an organized canvas, enhanced with Copilot’s assistance. Additionally, the Podcasts feature enables users to generate personalized audio content based on their interests or specific research topics. These podcasts are designed to be interactive, allowing users to engage in ongoing conversations with Copilot during playback.
Other Noteworthy Updates
- Shopping: A built-in AI shopping assistant that monitors price drops and provides product comparisons.
- Deep Research: A tool that assists users in completing complex, multi-step research tasks using both online and offline sources.
- Copilot Search in Bing: A new search experience that blends traditional and generative search, providing detailed results complete with citations and suggestions for further exploration.
These new features have already begun rolling out and are expected to expand to a wider range of platforms, languages, and regions over the next several months.
