Copilot Wave 2: Discover New AI Features To Try Out

Microsoft has unveiled an exciting update to its AI assistant, Copilot, referred to as “Wave 2.” This update enhances Copilot’s functionality across various widely used Office applications and introduces features specifically designed for businesses, including the innovative Copilot Pages.

Let’s dive into Copilot Pages first. Described as a “dynamic, persistent canvas,” Pages facilitate “multiplayer” collaboration seamlessly integrated within Copilot. Microsoft aims to create a more productive environment by allowing users to accomplish tasks directly within Copilot without switching between applications.

Microsoft 365 Copilot | Copilot Pages

Copilot Pages acts as a convenient hub where you can extract content from Copilot and store it in an easily accessible format. It encourages collaboration since multiple users can join and edit the same Page simultaneously. While it may seem similar to existing features found in other applications, Microsoft sees it as a means to deepen user engagement with Copilot, a key component of their strategy for AI integration.

Microsoft succinctly explains: “Pages transform temporary AI-generated content into something lasting, allowing for editing, additions, and sharing with others.”

This addition to Copilot comes at no extra cost, but access requires a Microsoft Entra account. The rollout is scheduled for the upcoming weeks, although details regarding wider accessibility were not specified.

Along with Pages, Microsoft is also implementing updates across Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, and OneDrive. While the changes aren’t sweeping, they encapsulate a broad enhancement across the board:

Word: Users will be able to easily reference data from the web alongside information from other apps, featuring a new “on-canvas” experience that prominently integrates Copilot.
Excel: Python is now operable within Copilot, enabling advanced analysis through natural language commands and improved handling of unformatted data. Additionally, new skills are being implemented for more adept Excel users, with Python in public preview.
PowerPoint: A feature called Narrative Builder allows users to create presentations based solely on prompts while customizing outlines and adhering to corporate branding via approved SharePoint graphics.
Teams: Copilot will take on an enhanced role by analyzing meeting transcripts and chats, letting users ask questions about missed content.
Outlook: The “Prioritize my inbox” feature organizes emails using AI, focusing on key communications and ongoing threads.
OneDrive: An AI-powered search function enables Copilot to discern and retrieve information from files more efficiently.

Lastly, Microsoft is introducing Copilot agents and a corresponding agent builder tool, found within Copilot Studio. While not widely available to the general public, these agents can be tailored for large organizations to automate various tasks, ranging from simple prompts to complex autonomous actions.

The potential capabilities of these agents are intriguing, though most users may not interact with them directly. However, as developers and large companies begin utilizing these AI agents, they have the potential to significantly transform workflows.