In today's fast-paced digital world, productivity tools are essential for managing tasks efficiently. Microsoft Copilot is one such tool that promises to revolutionize the way we work. However, with multiple versions available, it can be challenging to understand what each version offers and how it fits into your workflow (and your budget).
In this blog post, we'll break down the different versions of Microsoft Copilot and help you navigate them so that you can determine which one is best for you, your company or your customers. My colleague created a great video that breaks down the various versions of Copilot (it's further down, feel free to skip to the video).
Do you need Microsoft Teams Premium and Copilot? Read this to learn more.
Microsoft Copilot comes in several versions, each tailored to different user needs. The free version of Microsoft Copilot is accessible without any sign-in requirements. You can visit copilot.microsoft.com, use the native Copilot app in Windows 11, or access it through Bing or Edge, or even on your mobile device. This version provides basic GPT-4 features and web-connected capabilities, making it ideal for casual or general research tasks. However, it does not support file uploads, personalization, or secure data handling.
Enhanced Features with Personal Microsoft Account
By signing in with a personal Microsoft account, users unlock additional features. These include the ability to upload files, generate images with Dolly, have longer, more context-aware conversations, and use voice input. This version is still not connected to any work-related data, but it enhances personal productivity by integrating with personal Microsoft services.
Copilot Pro for Personal Users
Copilot Pro is a subscription-based upgrade for personal users. It offers access to GPT-4 Turbo, which is faster and smarter than GPT-4, and higher quality image generation. If you have a Microsoft 365 personal or family subscription, Copilot Pro integrates into apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more. This version is designed for personal productivity and does not integrate with organizational data or apps.
Copilot for Work
For work-related tasks, signing into Copilot with a work or school account provides access to Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat. This version offers a secure chat experience with enterprise-grade protection, allowing file uploads, summaries, planning assistance, and interaction with Copilot Agents. These agents are task-specific assistants designed to help with business workflows. However, this version does not access Outlook, Teams, SharePoint, or other work tools in real-time.
Microsoft 365 Copilot: The Full Experience
The fully licensed version of Microsoft 365 Copilot is the most comprehensive. It requires an additional paid license on top of your Microsoft 365 subscription and integrates deeply across your apps and data. This version embeds Copilot directly inside Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, OneNote, Loop, and more. It can summarize emails, analyze spreadsheets, create presentations, and catch you up on missed meetings, working across your calendar, Teams chats, OneDrive, and SharePoint files in real-time. We offer industry-leading Microsoft Copilot training which is highly recommended.
Meet the Copilots
Navigating Copilot Versions
Understanding which version of Copilot you are using is crucial. Microsoft Copilot usually refers to the free or pro version for personal use, while Microsoft 365 Copilot refers to the enterprise-grade version with full integration into your work environment. The Windows 11 Copilot app is for personal use only, and using Microsoft 365 Copilot may require installing a separate app from the Microsoft Store, which your organization might restrict.
Microsoft Copilot offers a range of features tailored to different user needs, from casual research tasks to comprehensive enterprise-grade productivity tools. By understanding the capabilities and limitations of each version, you can leverage Copilot to enhance your workflow and productivity.
Rolling out M365 Copilot in your business environment, read: A Guide to Prepare for Secure AI Adoption with Microsoft Copilot.
You might also like these blog posts: