Microsoft Simplifies AI Features by Merging Copilot Apps

Microsoft is consolidating its AI features and apps, merging its consumer-facing Copilot app with the business-oriented Microsoft 365 Copilot app. This move comes after two years of Microsoft emphasizing the importance of AI in technology, but acknowledging that its prior strategy was too complicated to make Copilot a viable competitor.

The company is ditching several unsuccessful AI features, including Group Chats, AI-generated podcasts, and Copilot Labs experimental features, as well as its animated character Mico. For paying professional users, Researcher will offer a replacement for the Deep Research feature. The transition is expected to be completed by August 18, 2026.

This move follows a broader consolidation in the AI app space, with other companies such as Claude and ChatGPT merging or adding features to their apps. Microsoft's goal is to make Copilot a 'simpler, more cohesive experience' for users.