In an era where artificial intelligence is seamlessly integrating into daily workflows, Microsoft has taken a significant leap forward. The tech giant has recently enhanced its Microsoft 365 offerings by integrating OpenAI’s advanced o1 model into the Copilot AI experience. This new feature, dubbed ‘Think Deeper’, is set to revolutionize how professionals across industries interact with AI to optimize productivity and decision-making processes.
Microsoft Unveils ‘Think Deeper’—A Game Changer for Professional Software Suites
Microsoft AI chief, Mustafa Suleyman, revealed the details of this innovative integration through a post on LinkedIn. ‘Think Deeper’ is accessible to all Microsoft 365 users at no additional cost, marking a strategic shift in how Microsoft deploys its AI capabilities. The feature is designed to assist users with a variety of tasks including planning, advice, and in-depth exploration of diverse topics.
How to Access and Utilize ‘Think Deeper’
Unlike other features of Microsoft Copilot, which are embedded directly within the Microsoft 365 desktop applications, ‘Think Deeper’ is available through the Copilot web chat at copilot.microsoft.com and the Copilot mobile app. Accessing the feature requires a Microsoft account. Users can easily toggle on the ‘Think Deeper’ mode by clicking on the small Copilot icon in the right corner of the text box on the welcome page, which then turns black to indicate activation. This simple activation process opens up a realm of advanced AI capabilities at the user’s fingertips.
A Closer Look at the OpenAI o1 Model’s Capabilities
When OpenAI first unveiled the o1 model in December 2024, it boasted an impressive ability to solve complex Mathematics Olympiad problems with 86% accuracy and demonstrated PhD-level proficiency in STEM fields. The model’s integration into Microsoft Copilot goes beyond mere problem-solving. For instance, during a demonstration with an SAT-level math problem, the ‘Think Deeper’ toggle provided not only the solution but also a psychological analysis, historical insights, and related fun facts, delivering a holistic understanding of the problem at hand.
Implications of Free Access to Advanced AI
The decision to make the o1 model available for free is a significant pivot from OpenAI’s previous business model, which involved a $200 monthly charge for complete access through ChatGPT Pro. The o1 model was also available in a more limited capacity through ChatGPT Plus for $20 a month. This strategic move by Microsoft not only democratizes access to cutting-edge AI technology but also potentially shifts market dynamics by enhancing the value proposition of Microsoft 365 subscriptions.
Economic Considerations
It is important to note, however, that this enhancement comes at a time when Microsoft has announced an upcoming price increase for personal Microsoft 365 subscriptions. This raises questions about the long-term cost implications for end-users and whether the advanced features provided by ‘Think Deeper’ are anticipated to offset the potential increase in subscription costs.
Microsoft’s integration of the OpenAI o1 model into its Copilot AI experience represents a bold stride towards making advanced AI tools more accessible and functional for a broad user base. This move not only reinforces Microsoft’s position as a leader in AI integration into business and productivity software but also sets a new standard for the application of AI in enhancing professional workflows.
As AI continues to evolve, the potential for such technologies to influence productivity and professional decision-making will undoubtedly increase, marking an exciting chapter in the intersection of technology and everyday business operations.
