Microsoft Opens Up More AI Features for Free Copilot Users

If you're into AI tools, here's some good news: Microsoft is expanding what you can do with its Copilot AI for free. They've unlocked two handy features—Voice and Think Deeper—making them unlimited for users on the free tier.

What Are Voice and Think Deeper?

Voice is like having a chat with a voice assistant. You can speak directly to the AI, and it responds to your verbal commands. Think Deeper, on the other hand, is all about tackling more complex questions. It's powered by OpenAI's o1 model, which means it can handle more intricate queries than the standard Copilot.

The Competitive AI Landscape

The AI chatbot market is getting crowded, with players like OpenAI's ChatGPT and Google's Gemini leading the pack. Microsoft launched Copilot in 2022 to join this race, and now they're stepping up their game by offering more for free, especially after a new competitor, DeepSeek, rolled out a completely free service. The Voice and Think Deeper features provide different ways for users to interact with Microsoft's AI, giving them more flexibility.

A Hands-On Experience

CNET's Lori Grunin tested the Think Deeper feature. She found that while it's free, it sometimes stopped providing new answers and prompted her to sign in for the full experience. When trying out Voice without signing in, I was greeted in a friendly manner, like chatting with a buddy, and it even asked my name. However, after a brief chat, I was informed that I'd need to sign in to continue using it for free.

How to Get Started

Becoming a Copilot user is simple. You just need to sign up with a Microsoft email address. The free version does have some limitations, like slowing down responses after 15 daily "boosts" and only giving access to the latest models during off-peak times. If you need more, there's a paid version called Copilot Pro for $20 a month, and an enterprise option starting at $30 per user each month.

Practical Uses

Microsoft suggests using Voice for practical tasks like language practice, job interview prep, or hands-free cooking advice. Think Deeper can help with complex decisions, such as comparing electric vehicles or getting home renovation tips. However, it's wise to double-check any advice it gives, as AI can sometimes make mistakes or "hallucinate" information.

A Word of Caution

Remember, while AI can be incredibly helpful, it's important to keep your personal information private. Never share sensitive details with an AI chatbot, as there's always a risk of data breaches.

In a review by CNET, Copilot scored a respectable 7 out of 10, praised for its accuracy and relevance. However, for those seeking the best AI experience, CNET's Imad Khan recommends Anthropic's Claude, which he finds more consistent than other free-tier options like Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI.

So, if you're curious about AI or looking to get more from your Copilot experience, now's a great time to explore these expanded free features!