Microsoft brings Memory, Deep Research, Podcasts and other AI features to Copilot

Microsoft Copilot

To mark its 50th anniversary, Microsoft has introduced major advancements to its AI assistant, Copilot. The company said that it is looking to transform Copilot into a deeply personalized companion for users.

Mustafa Suleyman, CEO of Microsoft’s AI division, in a blog said that Microsoft wants Copilot to become uniquely tailored to individual users, adapting to their specific needs, values, and expectations. “That’s why ultimately, there will be as many different Copilots as there are people using them. Today, we are embarking on the journey to take Copilot from an AI companion to your AI companion,” said Suleyman.

Among the newly introduced features is Deep Research, enabling Copilot to efficiently conduct complex, multi-step research tasks. This feature allows the AI to find, analyse, and synthesize information from various online sources and extensive document collections, significantly reducing the time required for in-depth research.

Furthermore, Copilot now boasts enhanced memory capabilities, allowing it to recall user-specific details and preferences. This advancement enables the AI to offer more tailored assistance, such as personalised recommendations and proactive task management. Users retain control over this feature, with the ability to manage and delete stored information as desired.

Microsoft has also reintroduced personalisation elements, including the return of Clippy, and offers customization options to align Copilot’s appearance and interaction style with individual user preferences

Copilot’s new feature is its ability to now take action on your behalf. “With Actions, Copilot can now partner with you to complete tasks behind the scenes. Use simple chat prompts to ask Copilot to book event tickets, grab dinner reservations or more. “Copilot Actions will work with most websites across the web, and we’re particularly excited to highlight our launch partners: 1-800-Flowers.com, Booking.com, Expedia, Kayak, OpenTable, Priceline, Tripadvisor, Skyscanner, Viator and Vrbo,” said Suleyman.

According to Microsoft, Copilot can now generate AI-powered podcasts that curate and deliver personalized audio content based on your interests. Copilot can create a personalised podcast to analyze and compare options like with a vacation plan or home purchase or you can provide content to Copilot like a study or specific web sites and Copilot will generate a podcast that helps explain the topic. While listening, you can continue to talk and interact with Copilot to learn more and keep the conversations going.