Microsoft has finally released a dedicated macOS app for Copilot, completing its expansion across major platforms. Copilot was already available on web browsers like Edge, Chrome, Firefox, and Safari, as well as Android, iOS, and iPadOS. Now, Mac users also get their own standalone app, making it easier than ever to access Microsoft’s AI assistant without needing to open a browser or use integrations in other apps.
Copilot functions much like other AI chatbots, assisting users with drafting emails, summarizing documents, writing cover letters, and more. There is an image generator powered by DALL-E 3. While Mac users previously had to rely on the web version, they can now enjoy a dedicated app experience that offers quick access to AI-powered assistance.
There are some technical requirements to keep in mind though. Copilot requires macOS 14.0 or later and only runs on Macs equipped with an Apple M1 chip or newer. This limitation is notable, considering Copilot is essentially a web app and could technically work on older Intel-based Macs. However, Microsoft has chosen to align with Apple’s shift toward its own silicon, which is gradually phasing out Intel Mac support.
The app itself closely mirrors the web version, allowing users to interact with Copilot through text-based prompts. Unlike OpenAI’s ChatGPT app, it doesn’t support using on-screen content as input, but it does offer a prompt bar for quick queries and a menu bar icon for easy access.
However, it’s important to note that the Copilot macOS app is not yet available in all countries. Currently, it is accessible in select regions, including the USA, UK, and Canada. Users in other regions may need to wait for future updates before they can download and use the app on their Macs.
Alongside the macOS app launch, Microsoft announced free, unlimited access to two premium features for all Copilot users: Voice and Think Deeper. The Voice feature allows users to have natural conversations with the AI, similar to ChatGPT and Gemini’s voice interactions. Think Deeper, powered by OpenAI’s o1 model, enhances Copilot’s ability to tackle complex queries and provide more thoughtful responses.
For Mac users, the release of a dedicated Copilot app brings added convenience. While it may not introduce groundbreaking new features, it eliminates the need for a browser, offering a more seamless AI experience. With Apple Intelligence on the horizon, the AI landscape on Mac is evolving, and Copilot’s arrival ensures Microsoft remains a key player in the space.
