Microsoft is changing its tune and testing a new strategy to promote the adoption of Copilot Pro. Artificial intelligence (AI) is directly integrated into the Microsoft 365 suite, leading to an increase in the subscription price.
AI is coming to Microsoft 365, like it or not
Launched in January 2024, Copilot Pro offers advanced AI features in Microsoft 365 Personal and Family applications for 22 euros monthly. For example, it generates complete drafts in Word, and analyzes the data within Excel.
But the Redmond firm seems determined to change its tune, and to distribute its subscription differently. In some Asia-Pacific countries, specifically Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand, it tests the direct integration of Copilot Pro with Microsoft 365, without requiring an additional subscription.
“ It’s been nine months since we introduced Copilot to our Microsoft 365 apps via Copilot Pro. We spent this time adding new features, improving performance, and listening carefully to customer feedback. Based on this feedback, we’re integrating Copilot into our Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscriptions », supports the company in a press release.
The Microsoft Designer app, which allows you to generate images from simple prompts, is also being added to Microsoft 365 in these markets. Note that this deployment does not provide AI in an unlimited manner, but in the form of credits : “ Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscribers will receive a monthly allocation of AI credits to use Copilot in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, and Designer. Credits will also apply to apps like Paint, Photos, and Notepad on Windows », Explains Microsoft.
Microsoft seeks to capitalize on Copilot Pro
But, there is a but. As a result, the cost of subscribing to Microsoft 365 will increase. The increase is not similar everywhere; in Australia, it corresponds to the equivalent of an increase from 2.50 euros to 3 euros. Note that for those who have subscribed to Microsoft 365 Family, only the subscription owner will have access to Copilot. He will not be able to share it with other family members.
For the moment, the company has not specified whether this change will be deployed in other countries, but it is a safe bet that this will be the case. It first conducts trials in small markets before adapting it.
If generative AI is booming, and companies continue to deploy it in their products, they are still struggling to generate profit through it as the cost of its operation is high. To see if this formula proves profitable for Microsoft and above all, if users are satisfied with it despite the price increase.
- Microsoft is testing the integration of Copilot Pro directly into Microsoft 365 in select markets.
- As a result, the subscription price increases.
- There is a good chance that this strategy will subsequently be deployed on the European market.
