Microsoft Enhances Copilot with Free AI Tools: Voice and Think Deeper

Microsoft is expanding its artificial intelligence (AI) offerings by providing unlimited free access to two new features, Voice and Think Deeper, on its Copilot free tier. These tools aim to enhance user interaction with AI, making it more accessible and versatile for everyday tasks. Voice allows users to engage in voice-based conversations with the AI, similar to traditional voice assistants, while Think Deeper enables users to ask more complex and nuanced questions, leveraging advanced reasoning capabilities powered by OpenAI’s GPT-1 model. This move comes as Microsoft competes in the rapidly evolving AI chatbot market, which includes rivals like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, and the new entrant, China’s DeepSeek.

The Competitive Landscape: Free AI Tools on the Rise

The AI chatbot space has become increasingly competitive, with tech companies racing to release new features and tools to gain a foothold. Microsoft’s Copilot, launched in 2022, is its entry into this market, and the addition of Voice and Think Deeper reflects its efforts to stay ahead. Interestingly, these enhancements come after DeepSeek launched a fully free service, prompting other companies to offer more free features to retain users. While these tools are designed to provide unique ways to interact with AI, they also highlight the industry’s shift toward making AI more accessible and user-friendly.

Hands-On Experience: Testing Microsoft’s New Features

CNET Senior Editor Lori Grunin tested Think Deeper and found that while it is free, it has limitations. For instance, during her test, the feature stopped providing new answers to refined queries and prompted her to sign in for the full Copilot experience. Additionally, Grunin noted that the tool did not always obey specific parameters, which raises questions about its reliability. Meanwhile, Voice was tested without a Copilot account, and it functioned like a standard voice assistant, greeting the user with a British accent and asking for their name. However, the free version of Voice limits usage to just two minutes, encouraging users to create an account for unlimited access.

Copilot Free vs. Paid Tiers: What You Need to Know

Becoming a Copilot user is straightforward—users can sign up for free using a Microsoft email address. However, the free tier comes with restrictions. For example, it limits the number of features available, slows down responses after 15 "boosts" per day, and only provides access to the latest AI models during non-peak times. For users who need more advanced capabilities, Microsoft offers a paid tier called Copilot Pro for $20 per month, as well as an enterprise version starting at $30 per user per month. While the free tier is a great starting point, the paid options cater to users who require faster, more reliable, and unrestricted access to AI tools.

Practical Uses for Voice and Think Deeper

Microsoft has suggested several practical applications for its new features. Voice can be used for language practice, job interview preparation, or even hands-free cooking advice. For example, users can ask the AI for recipe steps while their hands are busy in the kitchen, making it a versatile tool for daily tasks. On the other hand, Think Deeper is ideal for tackling complex inquiries, such as comparing electric vehicles, seeking home renovation advice, or evaluating the pros and cons of buying a generator. These features highlight Microsoft’s efforts to make AI a helpful companion for both simple and intricate tasks.

A Balanced Perspective: The Benefits and Limitations of AI

While Microsoft’s Copilot has received positive reviews, with CNET rating it 7 out of 10 for its accuracy and relevance, users should remain cautious when relying on AI tools. As with any AI, there is a risk of inaccurate or misleading information, especially if the AI "hallucinates" or provides nonsensical answers. Additionally, users should avoid sharing personal or financial information with AI chatbots to prevent potential data breaches. CNET Senior Writer Imad Khan recommends Anthropic’s Claude as the best AI chatbot for its consistency and advanced capabilities, especially at the free tier.

In conclusion, Microsoft’s decision to offer unlimited free access to Voice and Think Deeper on its Copilot platform is a strategic move to stay competitive in the AI market. While these tools offer exciting possibilities for enhancing productivity and creativity, users must remain mindful of their limitations and use them responsibly.