Microsoft Enhances Copilot with Top AI Features

As Microsoft celebrates its 50th anniversary, it's rolling out a significant update to Copilot, bringing it up to speed with rivals like ChatGPT and Claude. The AI assistant, powered by various OpenAI models, is now equipped with features like memory, personalization, web-based actions, podcast creation, camera and screen analysis, and advanced research capabilities, among others.

With the new Memory feature, Copilot can now keep tabs on your preferences, interests, and personal details like your birthday. It uses this information to tailor responses, offer advice, and even make proactive suggestions. Microsoft emphasizes user control, allowing you to decide what information Copilot remembers or opt out completely.

Image: Microsoft

This update is part of Microsoft's ongoing effort to make Copilot feel more personal. While still in the early stages, Microsoft hints at future enhancements, including personalized appearances for Copilot, with the exciting possibility of reviving the beloved Clippy.

“Copilot is more than just an AI; it's yours,” says Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman. “Each user's Copilot will have a unique style and blend of attributes, tailored to suit individual needs and preferences.”

In addition to personalization, Copilot's capabilities are expanding. The new Actions feature allows the AI to perform tasks through a web browser, similar to OpenAI’s Operator agent or Amazon’s Nova Act model. Microsoft envisions this being used for tasks like booking show tickets, reserving restaurants, and making purchases, especially when paired with new shopping features that enable Copilot to research products and find discounts.

Copilot Vision, initially introduced in the web tool in December 2024, is now expanding to Windows and mobile apps. On Windows, Copilot can "see" what's on your screen across different apps and files, allowing it to answer questions or interact with content. On iOS and Android, it can analyze anything visible through your phone's camera or the photos in your camera roll.

Image: Microsoft

The Deep Research feature enables Copilot to analyze large volumes of documents or online sources for complex projects. This capability is being integrated with Bing to provide AI-powered responses within the search engine. Additionally, Copilot can now generate podcast-style audio to explain topics based on its research, and a new Pages feature helps organize notes and research into a single canvas.

Microsoft is rolling out these features starting today in "initial versions," with improvements expected over the coming weeks and months. Availability will vary by feature, platform, and market. While none of these features are groundbreaking—ChatGPT introduced memory last year, Google Gemini offers a vision mode, and many AI companies are working on personalized agents—Microsoft's simultaneous introduction of these enhancements underscores its commitment to staying competitive and maximizing its investment in OpenAI.

Update, April 4th: Added confirmation that Clippy will be a Copilot personalization option.