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Learn the key differences between Microsoft Copilot’s free and paid versions, including features, use cases, pricing, and how to boost productivity with the right setup.
Microsoft Copilot’s free version is essentially a rebranded Bing Chat. It operates similarly to other AI chat interfaces like ChatGPT, allowing users to generate text and images.
For instance, you can ask it to create an image of a man walking up a snowy mountain or write a short story about a mountain climber.
This version is accessible directly within the Edge browser and does not require any licenses, it can also be accessed by clicking here. (opens in a new tab)
The following are a few examples of how you can put the free version of Microsoft Copilot to use within your organisation:
• Provides answers to questions through collation of various materials from across the web.
• Generates images and text quickly, making it a valuable tool for basic creative tasks e.g. Linked In Posts and Presentation Images.
• Generate example code to be copied into your application, such as HTML, CSS and JavaScript.
• Generate text to support the creation of emails, documents and/or social media posts.
• Analyse attachments that are added to your Copilot prompt e.g. analyse data from a screen capture or Excel file, or perhaps summarise the content of an attached report written in Word.
Whilst the free version offers basic functionalities, the paid version of Microsoft Copilot, integrated with Microsoft 365, takes things to a whole new level. This version can create and manage files, generate PowerPoint presentations from documents, and much more. It costs $30 per user per month with a 12-month commitment. However, you can pro-rate this commitment based on your existing Microsoft 365 license period. The following are a few examples of how you can put the paid versions of Microsoft Copilot to use within your organisation, over and above what is available for free: • Work with data that is stored within your organisation to enable answers and supporting materials to be directly related to your business. As an example, a presentation may be created based on a report that has been written and saved internally. • Access Copilot directly inside the Microsoft Office Suite seamless integration. Draft and rewrite documents directly in Word, Analyse data and build reports directly in Excel, Generate full presentations with imagery and animations directly in PowerPoint. • Integration with Microsoft Teams to support users during and after meetings through analysis transcripts and generated notes and actions. • Protects your users through enhanced security and compliance features, whilst connected with Entra ID.
The paid version of Microsoft Copilot offers several advantages, including seamless integration with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and other Office products.
It also enhances productivity by providing a secure environment through Entra ID, ensuring all user activities are protected and secure. This integration means you can achieve a significant productivity boost as everything is connected and secure.
In summary, Microsoft Copilot offers both free and paid versions, each with its unique benefits.
While the free version is great for basic tasks like text and image generation, the paid version integrated with Microsoft 365 provides a comprehensive suite of tools for enhanced productivity and security.
A great starting point is to work with Valto in completing our free Microsoft Copilot Assessment. This 40-point check will evaluate your organization’s AI adoption and readiness, providing recommendations for security and setup.
If you need assistance with Microsoft Copilot, have any questions, or wish to take advantage of our free Microsoft Copilot assessment, please contact us. We’re here to help you through your AI journey.
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Microsoft Copilot is a versatile tool that offers both free and paid versions, each with its unique features and capabilities.
In this article, we will explore the differences between these versions and help you understand which one might be the best fit for your needs.
Microsoft Copilot is a versatile tool that offers both free and paid versions, each with its unique features and capabilities. In this article, we will explore the differences between these versions and help you understand which one might be the best fit for your needs.
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