Microsoft has introduced a significant update to its AI offerings with the launch of Copilot Pro. This new subscription service, available for $20 per individual per month, builds upon the existing Copilot platform, offering enhanced features and capabilities aimed at revolutionizing user experience in personal and professional contexts.

Understanding Copilot Pro:

Copilot Pro, touted as the most powerful version of Microsoft’s AI, extends beyond the foundational capabilities of the original Copilot. Key features include:

1. Integration with Microsoft 365 Apps: The service is deeply integrated into Microsoft 365 apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote, facilitating tasks like document drafting, data analysis, and email composition​​.
2. Priority Access to Latest AI Models: Subscribers receive prioritized access to advanced AI models, including GPT-4 Turbo, ensuring faster performance even during peak hours​​.
3. Enhanced AI Image Creation: The subscription includes an improved version of AI for more accurate image creation, with up to 100 daily boosts using the DALL-E 3 model​​.
4. Customizable Copilot GPTs: An upcoming feature, Copilot GPT Builder, will enable users to create Copilots tailored to specific topics, adding a layer of personalization​​.
5. Cross-Device Functionality: Copilot Pro offers a unified AI experience across various devices, understanding user context on PCs, apps, and soon on phones​​.

Copilot: The Free Alternative

For users seeking basic AI assistance without the advanced features of Pro, the free version of Copilot remains an accessible option. It provides fundamental AI capabilities and web grounding, but with limitations during high traffic times and reduced daily boosts for AI image creation.

Microsoft is also expanding its AI offerings with Copilot for Microsoft 365, targeting businesses of all sizes. This service provides similar benefits as Copilot Pro but is tailored for organizational use, integrating with Microsoft Teams and offering enterprise-grade data protection​.

Pricing and Availability

Copilot Pro is currently available in the United States and select countries at $20 per month, with plans for further expansion. The service necessitates an additional subscription for Microsoft 365 Personal or Family plans for full functionality, bringing the total cost to around $30 per month when combined​​. Copilot for Microsoft 365, meanwhile, is available to small businesses for $30 per user per month, with no minimum seat purchase required.