Copilot is Microsoft’s AI assistant. If you use a Windows computer, the Edge browser, or programs like Word and Outlook, you’ve probably seen the Copilot icon. This guide explains what it is and how to use it.
What is Copilot?
Copilot is an AI chatbot built by Microsoft. It uses technology from OpenAI (the company behind ChatGPT) along with Microsoft’s own models. You can chat with it, ask questions, and get help with writing and planning.
The name “Copilot” is used for a few different things, which can be confusing:
- Copilot app: the free chatbot on Windows, in Edge, on the web, and on phones.
- Copilot in Microsoft 365: AI inside Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
- GitHub Copilot: a tool for programmers. You can ignore this one as a beginner.
What can Copilot do?
- Answer questions using Bing search, with links to its sources.
- Write and rewrite emails, letters, and documents.
- Summarize a web page you’re reading in Edge.
- Create images from a description.
- In Word: draft a document from a few notes. In PowerPoint: build slides from a document. In Outlook: summarize long email threads.
Is Copilot free?
The Copilot app is free with a Microsoft account. Copilot features inside Word, Excel, and Outlook are included in some Microsoft 365 subscriptions or available as an upgrade. Plans change often, so check Microsoft’s website.
How to get started
- On Windows, look for the Copilot icon in the taskbar, or open the Copilot app.
- Or go to copilot.microsoft.com in any browser, or download the Copilot phone app.
- Sign in with your Microsoft account (Outlook, Hotmail, or Xbox accounts work).
- Type or speak your question.
Easy things to try
- While reading a long article in Edge, open Copilot and ask: “Summarize this page.”
- “Write a short, professional out-of-office message for next week.”
- “Create a simple monthly budget template I can copy into Excel.”
Things to watch out for
- At work, your company may have rules about using AI with company documents. Check first.
- Copilot can make mistakes. Always review what it writes before you send it.
The bottom line
If you use Windows and Microsoft Office every day, Copilot is the easiest AI to fit into your routine. The free app is a solid chatbot, and the Office features can save real time on emails and documents.
Frequently asked questions
Is Microsoft Copilot free?
The Copilot app is free with a Microsoft account. Copilot inside Word, Excel, and Outlook is included in some Microsoft 365 subscriptions or available as an upgrade.
Is Copilot the same as ChatGPT?
Not exactly. Copilot is Microsoft’s own product. It uses technology from OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, together with Microsoft’s own AI models.
Where do I find Copilot on Windows?
Look for the Copilot icon in the taskbar or open the Copilot app. You can also use it at copilot.microsoft.com in any browser.