Microsoft Introduces Copilot for Mac: A New AI Assistant

Microsoft has launched a dedicated Copilot app for Mac users. Currently, the app is accessible only in the US and UK, but it comes fully equipped with cutting-edge features, including the innovative Think Deeper mode.

The app requires your Mac to be running macOS 14 or a newer version. In terms of hardware, any Mac with M1 silicon or a newer Apple processor can support this app.

Additionally, the Copilot app includes a native dark mode for those who prefer a darker interface.

Users can activate the AI assistant easily with a quick launch keyboard shortcut: option + space. This version designed for macOS supports multi-modal input, enabling it to understand text-based queries, voice commands, and images.

Another exciting feature is Copilot Daily, which provides users with a daily briefing that summarizes news from credible sources, along with weather updates and more. This feature resembles Samsung's Now Brief system available on its Galaxy S25 series phones.

Furthermore, Copilot for macOS introduces various features such as text-to-image generation, writing assistance, language translation, and photo editing. According to the App Store description, “Copilot combines the power of AI with the imaginative capabilities of the latest OpenAI models all in one place.”

A Surprising AI Development for Mac Users

It is interesting to note that Copilot is utilizing OpenAI's technology on an Apple platform, especially considering that Microsoft and Apple are known rivals in the tech industry. OpenAI's technology acts as a key link between these two companies.

Microsoft has been a significant investor in OpenAI and collaborates closely with them on various projects, making Copilot one of several applications that gain from advancements in OpenAI technology. Just recently, Microsoft integrated OpenAI's latest AI model, GPT-4.5, into its Azure AI Foundry.

As Copilot for macOS becomes available, it is noted by users that the quick launch feature greatly enhances daily tasks. Apple fans can celebrate that their Macs are now able to join in on the capabilities that iPhone and iPad users have enjoyed.

In contrast, Apple has been working on incorporating ChatGPT’s features into Siri and its Apple Intelligence systems across both mobile and desktop devices. For tasks that Siri cannot complete, ChatGPT steps in to fill the gap.

However, it has been reported that Apple is experiencing delays in updating Siri with a generative AI makeover, although progress is being made. The company recently established partnerships with Alibaba and Baidu for AI projects in China.

Meanwhile, Google has replaced its Google Assistant with the more capable Gemini assistant for Android users, whether through built-in OS updates or through the independent Gemini application.

Whether Copilot is only a temporary solution for Mac enthusiasts remains to be seen. Currently, it is not available in all regions, but Microsoft executive Yusuf Mehdi has confirmed that efforts are underway to expand the app's reach.

Microsoft, Copilot, AI