WellWired Journal
What is Microsoft Copilot? A Simple Guide
Quick Summary: Microsoft Copilot is an AI assistant, similar to ChatGPT, that is built directly into Windows, Microsoft Edge, and Office apps like Word and Excel. It can answer questions, create text, and help you with tasks on your computer. A powerful version is free to use.
You may have noticed a new icon on your computer recently, or heard the name "Copilot" mentioned alongside Microsoft. Copilot is Microsoft's AI assistant, and it's built into Windows, Edge, and Office apps, so you might already have it without realising.
It works in a similar way to ChatGPT. You type a question or a request, and it replies. The difference is where you find it.
Where Can You Find Microsoft Copilot?
Copilot turns up in several places:
- In Windows: On newer versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11, look for a multicoloured swirl icon on your taskbar (the bar at the bottom of the screen). Click it and the Copilot chat window opens on your desktop.
- In the Microsoft Edge browser: There's a Copilot icon in the top-right corner of Edge. Use it to get help with whatever you're looking at online.
- On the Copilot website: You can also go to copilot.microsoft.com from any device or browser. No download needed.
- In Microsoft 365 (Office apps): The newest versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook have Copilot built in. This part requires a paid "Copilot for Microsoft 365" subscription.
What Can Copilot Do?
Most of what ChatGPT can do, Copilot can do too. We've found it particularly good for a few things:
- Answer questions with current information: Unlike the free version of ChatGPT, Copilot can look things up online. You can ask about recent news and get an up-to-date answer.
- Create images: Describe what you want and it'll generate a picture. "A cat asleep in a sunbeam" works well as a prompt.
- Summarise webpages: When you're using it in Edge, ask it to summarise the article you're reading.
- Help with computer settings: Open it from the Windows taskbar and you can ask it to do things like "Turn on dark mode" or "Take a screenshot."
- Draft documents and emails: It can help you write letters, tidy up an email, or put together a presentation, especially with the paid Microsoft 365 version.
Copilot vs. ChatGPT: What's the Difference?
They're built on similar technology. Both use OpenAI's work underneath, which is why they feel so alike. The main differences are:
- Internet access: Copilot's free version can look things up online. ChatGPT's free version can't.
- Where it lives: Copilot is built into Microsoft products. ChatGPT is its own website and app.
- Cost: Both have free versions. The paid tier for Microsoft Office is called "Copilot for Microsoft 365". ChatGPT's paid version is called "Plus".
If you already use Windows or Edge, Copilot is worth trying. It's free, it's already there, and it can search the web without any extra cost. For a broader look at how these tools compare, see our comparison of ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini.
If you haven't tried any AI assistant yet, you might want to start with our step-by-step guide to setting up ChatGPT. The process for Copilot is similar, and getting familiar with one makes the others easier to use.
FAQ
Do I need a Microsoft account to use Copilot?
For quick chats, you can use it without signing in. For longer conversations and to save your history, you'll need a free Microsoft account. You can create one at account.microsoft.com.
Is Microsoft Copilot free?
Yes, the version in Windows, Edge, and on the website is free. The version built into Office apps requires a paid subscription.
Is it safe to use?
Yes, for general tasks. As with all AI tools, avoid sharing sensitive personal information like passwords, bank details, or your home address. For more general advice, see our guide to staying safe with AI.
Is it replacing Microsoft's old assistant, Cortana?
Yes. Copilot replaced Cortana and can do considerably more.
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