Microsoft has officially released the latest capabilities for its Copilot app as it expands the AI assistant beyond conventional chat functions.
The American tech giant launched a coding agent, an AI assistant and deeper incorporation with its Office applications.
Moreover, Microsoft is launching Word, Excel and PowerPoint directly into Copilot, letting users work on documents, spreadsheets and presentations without leaving the AI platform.
Natural-Language coding
One of the significant additions is Code, a significant feature that lets users build apps, dashboards and other software using natural-language prompts.
The feature uses technology from the company’s GitHub Copilot. It will kick off launching to early-access customers at the end of September, while Microsoft 365 Premium and Pro subscribers will be able to preview it later this year.
AI agent for workplace tasks
Alongside the update, the company is also launching Autopilot, a revamped variant of its Scout AI agent first unveiled in June.
The digital coworker will have its own identity in a company directory and can receive specific permissions controlled by users.
Microsoft stated the approach is designed to address enterprise concerns around security, compliance and governance.
Autopilot will enter private preview at the end of September.
New AI cost controls
Moreover, Microsoft released cost-management features that give employees greater visibility into expenses associated with their AI usage.
The feature comes as businesses increasingly monitor AI spending and seek better control over rapidly expanding use of AI tools.
With these updates, Microsoft is positioning Copilot as a broader workplace platform while competing with AI assistants such as ChatGPT and Claude.
