Microsoft unveils Copilot super app, targeting business users with AI agents
After the AI boom took off about four years ago, Microsoft poured resources into winning both the consumer and enterprise sides of AI. With the unveiling of its Copilot AI “super app” Friday, the software giant has returned to basics, aiming its most capable technology at business customers.
TL;DR
- Microsoft's new Copilot "super app" consolidates AI tools for business users.
- Features include AI chat bots, task assistance, code writing, and an "Autopilot" for autonomous agentic capabilities.
- The app integrates with Microsoft Office tools like Excel and Word.
- A free version is available, but full access and advanced features require paid subscriptions and may have usage-based fees.
- The "Autopilot" feature allows users to assign roles and goals to AI agents for tasks like project updates and deadline tracking.
- Coding features are intended for non-software engineers and share technology with GitHub Copilot.
- Microsoft is enhancing security with features like explicit permissions, audit logs, and human oversight for agent autonomy.
- The company plans to monetize by charging extra for advanced capabilities and future ecosystem integrations.
- Microsoft faces competition from OpenAI and Anthropic, who are also pushing into enterprise AI offerings.