“$10 billion investment in OpenAI, and Copilot sucks compared to ChatGPT”: Microsoft staffers and customers lament Copilot’s warm and inviting update — a “step backward” and “absolutely ruined”

Microsoft’s Copilot AI assistant has undergone a significant transformation, unveiling a new user interface at the beginning of October. The update was designed to create a “warm and inviting” atmosphere while introducing next-generation AI features, including Copilot Vision, which allows the assistant to browse the web via Edge. However, access to these advanced functionalities requires a monthly subscription to Copilot Pro.

Despite the ambitious goals behind this overhaul, user feedback has been less than favorable. Many have expressed dissatisfaction with the changes, with some Microsoft employees echoing these concerns. Internal communications reportedly reveal that staff members believe the update has “absolutely ruined” the user experience, with one employee stating that the new Copilot represents a step backward.

Business Insider’s analysis highlights a notable decline in Copilot’s public ratings following the update. Previously boasting an impressive score of 4.8 out of 5 based on over 100,000 ratings, the app has seen a surge in one-star reviews, with more than 250 negative comments surfacing in October alone. Users have criticized the update for reducing functionality, with one remarking that it has “dumbed down” the assistant.

It’ll be hard to compete against ChatGPT at this rate

In a separate report, a primary complaint within Microsoft’s AI division is that Copilot does not perform as effectively as ChatGPT. While Microsoft has defended its product, suggesting that users may not be utilizing it correctly, it has also acknowledged the need for improved prompt engineering. To address this, the company has launched Copilot Academy, aimed at equipping users with the skills necessary to maximize the tool’s potential.

As the competition heats up, ChatGPT continues to lead the mobile AI space, particularly with the recent launch of OpenAI’s GPT-4o, which has driven significant revenue and download spikes. The ongoing challenges with Copilot’s update have left many users frustrated, as demonstrated by comments on platforms like Reddit. One user lamented the loss of chat history and the overall decline in functionality, while another suggested that Microsoft should consider allowing users to toggle between the old and new versions of Copilot.

With a hefty investment of billion in OpenAI, some users have expressed disbelief at Copilot’s current performance compared to its rivals. As the landscape of AI assistants evolves, the question remains: what steps will Microsoft take to address these pressing concerns and enhance the user experience moving forward?

Winsage
"$10 billion investment in OpenAI, and Copilot sucks compared to ChatGPT": Microsoft staffers and customers lament Copilot's warm and inviting update — a "step backward" and "absolutely ruined"