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Microsoft Copilot Replaces AI Bing Chat To Compete With ChatGPT
November 16, 2023
Earlier this year, Microsoft embarked on a significant AI initiative as an integral part of its Bing search engine, incorporating a ChatGPT-inspired interface within its search results. However, in less than a year, the tech giant has decided to abandon its Bing Chat moniker in favor of Microsoft Copilot, ushering in a new identity for the chat interface common on Bing, Microsoft Edge, and Windows 11.
The initial unveiling of Bing Chat positioned it as an “AI-powered copilot for the web.” Since then, the Copilot branding has been utilized in numerous AI endeavors, a decision that followed GitHub’s original usage of the Copilot name last year. Now, with this rebranding, Copilot is emerging as a more independent experience. Users no longer need to go through Bing to access it. Bing simply forms part of the engine that powers Copilot.
While Microsoft initially set its AI sights on competing with Google Search, the recent rebranding suggests a change in focus. The company now appears to be targeting ChatGPT, especially considering this switch occurred soon after OpenAI disclosed that ChatGPT was being used by 100 million people on a weekly basis. Notably, even amid a hefty partnership between Microsoft and OpenAI, both entities continue to vie for the same customers seeking AI assistants, with Microsoft strategically situating Copilot as a prime choice for both consumer and business sectors.
Microsoft now promotes Copilot as the free version of its AI chatbot, introducing Copilot for Microsoft 365 (formerly Microsoft 365 Copilot) as the premium alternative. The free version of Copilot will remain available on Bing and Windows, with a dedicated domain at copilot.microsoft.com, similar to ChatGPT.
Microsoft’s official announcement claims that this is only the beginning, and “as use of generative AI at work spreads, the real opportunity is to not only transform personal productivity but lift the capability of the entire organization. Copilot sets a new baseline — one where every employee gains the skills to write, design, code, analyze data, and more. And it amplifies expertise, taking work from good to exceptional.”
Business users will leverage an Entra ID to access Microsoft Copilot, while personal users will require a Microsoft account. As of now, Microsoft officially supports Copilot only on Microsoft Edge or Chrome and on Windows or macOS.
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