Microsoft's Copilot AI assistant is being pushed to Microsoft 365 subscribers in Australia and Southeast Asia, and this move comes with a price hike for all users, regardless of whether they want the AI feature or not. This change is part of Microsoft's effort to profit from its significant investments in AI.
Copilot, which is built with technology from OpenAI, is a key component of Microsoft's plan to expand its software business. However, some users are complaining about intrusive pop-ups and the forced price increase. The premium consumer version of Copilot costs an additional $20 per month in the US, on top of the regular Microsoft 365 subscription fee.
Microsoft has also announced new features for Copilot, including automation of everyday tasks and new agents that can handle more complex tasks like customer service interactions. The company is also introducing the Copilot Control System to help IT professionals manage Copilot and agents securely.
Despite some users' concerns, Microsoft reports that nearly 70% of Fortune 500 companies are already using Copilot, and the company expects its AI revenue to surpass $10 billion annually.
