In a strategic shake-up, Microsoft is merging its Copilot-branded consumer and business apps, waving goodbye to several lacklustre AI features. This consolidation acknowledges the overlap between personal and professional AI use, simplifying the Copilot experience to better compete with heavyweights like ChatGPT and Claude.
As reported by GeekWire, Microsoft’s decision follows a broader industry trend of merging AI functionalities, with Claude and OpenAI also consolidating their offerings. The new unified Copilot app will see the end of Group Chats, AI-generated podcasts, Copilot Labs experimental features, and Deep Research by August 18, 2026. Professional users, however, will find solace in the Researcher feature as a replacement.
Say farewell to Mico, the quirky floating blob character reminiscent of Clippy, as Microsoft aims for a more streamlined approach. During the transition, some features may temporarily vanish, but rest assured, files from the stand-alone Copilot app will find a new home in OneDrive.
Microsoft’s goal is clear: create a simpler, more cohesive Copilot experience. This move is also a candid admission that Copilot needed a revamp. In an internal memo, Microsoft EVP Jacob Andreou emphasised that Copilot must earn its place in users' lives, pivoting away from features that didn’t quite hit the mark.
So, as Microsoft tidies up its AI offerings, users can look forward to a more focused and efficient Copilot, ready to tackle both personal and professional tasks with aplomb.
Image: Microsoft
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