Microsoft has reported a surge in demand for its AI tools, with a remarkable 160% year-over-year increase in users of its Copilot product, witnessing a tenfold rise in daily active users. The company introduced significant updates to its Microsoft 365 Copilot, showcasing what it terms a 'third wave' of AI capabilities. This upgrade shifts the focus from generative AI to agentic AI, allowing the system to autonomously complete tasks and manage workflows.
Copilot Cowork will now integrate models from Anthropic, particularly Claude Cowork, in conjunction with tools from OpenAI. This enhancement will enable the assistant to handle complex, multi-step assignments and coordinate actions across various applications. Charles Lamanna, President of Business Apps and Agents at Microsoft, explained that the new features allow agents to organize calendars and conduct detailed research more effectively.
To further meet user demands, Microsoft plans to launch Agent 365, set to be available on May 1 at a cost of $15 per user monthly. This tool will offer advanced management features and has already seen tens of millions of agents registered during its preview phase. Additionally, Microsoft is set to introduce the anticipated Microsoft 365 E7 plan, priced at $99 per user, which will combine M365 E5, M365 Copilot, and Agent 365 into a streamlined subscription.