Microsoft Launches Dedicated Copilot App for macOS

After a period of web-based access and a brief, unintended iPad app workaround, Microsoft has officially released a standalone Copilot application for macOS. The free app is now available for download from the Mac App Store, bringing the company’s AI assistant directly to Apple’s desktop operating system.

This move follows the trend set by other AI powerhouses like ChatGPT and Anthropic, which have also launched native macOS apps. The Copilot app provides users with a convenient, OS-wide keyboard shortcut to instantly access its chat interface, streamlining workflow and enhancing productivity.

Copilot offers a wide range of functionalities, including text translation and summarization, question answering, report and document preparation, coding assistance, script generation, and brainstorming. Notably, it also integrates DALL-E 3 for image generation, expanding its creative capabilities.

Under the hood, Copilot leverages OpenAI’s advanced models, such as GPT-4 and DALL-E 3, alongside Microsoft’s proprietary Prometheus model. This integration reflects Microsoft’s substantial investment in OpenAI and its broader AI strategy.

The release of the macOS app marks a significant step in Copilot’s expansion. Initially launched on the web and within Edge, it has since been integrated into various Microsoft software and made available on iOS and Android.

Similar to Apple’s own generative AI features, the Copilot app for macOS requires a Mac equipped with an M1 chip or later, and macOS 14 or later. This ensures optimal performance and access to the latest AI capabilities.