Microsoft revamps Copilot with code generation, agentic AI tools
MSFT•Microsoft unveiled new Copilot capabilities, including a natural-language coding tool, an AI agent and embedded Word, Excel and PowerPoint apps. Code will reach early-access customers at the end of the month, while Autopilot will enter private preview then.
1. New Copilot tools
Microsoft unveiled Code, a tool that lets users build apps, dashboards and other software with natural-language prompts. Powered by the same technology as GitHub Copilot, it will roll out to early-access customers at the end of the month; Microsoft 365 Premium and Pro subscribers can preview it later this year.
2. AI agent and Office apps
Microsoft is embedding Word, Excel and PowerPoint in Copilot so users can work collaboratively without leaving the app. Autopilot, a revamp of the Scout AI agent unveiled in June, will enter private preview at the end of the month. It will have its own identity in the company directory and permissions that users can control.
3. Enterprise controls
Microsoft also unveiled tools for employees to track costs tied to AI usage. Annie Pearl, corporate vice president of Copilot Product, said security, compliance and governance concerns have made it hard for organizations to bring agents into the enterprise.
