Understanding the differences Between Copilot Chat (Free) and Microsoft 365 Copilot (Licensed)


Introduction

Microsoft offers two versions of its AI-powered assistant, Copilot: Copilot Chat (Free Version) and Microsoft 365 Copilot (Licensed Version). Both versions are designed to enhance productivity and collaboration, but they come with different sets of features and capabilities. To learn more about Copilot, please see this article.

Explanation

Copilot Chat (Free Version)

Copilot Chat is a free, web-based AI chat experience that provides users with a range of capabilities to assist with everyday tasks. Here are some of its key features:
  • Web-Grounded Chat: Powered by GPT-4, Copilot Chat can help with market research, document writing, meeting preparation, and more1.
  • File Uploads: Users can upload documents and ask Copilot to summarize key points, analyze data, or suggest improvements1.
  • Copilot Pages: Allows real-time collaboration on content with both people and AI, integrating content from files and the web1.
  • AI-Generated Images: Users can quickly create images for campaigns, product launches, and social media posts1.
  • Agents: Users can create agents to automate repetitive tasks and business processes directly within Copilot Chat1.
  • Voice and Think Deeper: Free, unlimited access to advanced reasoning models and voice interactions for more complex tasks2.
  • Enterprise Data Protection: As long as you are logged in with your Virginia Tech account, you are covered by Microsoft's Enterprise Data Protection agreement. More information can be found in this Knowledge Base article, https://4help.vt.edu/sp?id=kb_article&sysparm_article=KB0014762

Microsoft 365 Copilot (Licensed Version)

Microsoft 365 Copilot is a licensed version that integrates deeply with Microsoft 365 apps and provides enhanced capabilities for enterprise users. You can purchase a license for this product at the Software Service Center's website. Key features include:
  • The same features as Copilot Chat
  • Integration with Microsoft 365 Apps: Copilot is embedded within Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, and other Microsoft 365 apps, providing contextual assistance and automation3.
  • Microsoft Graph: Utilizes data from Microsoft Graph to offer personalized insights and recommendations4.
  • Advanced Security and Compliance: Includes features like data loss prevention, sensitivity labels, and eDiscovery to ensure data security and compliance3.
  • Copilot Control System: Provides enterprise data protection, access governance, and usage management1.
  • Adaptive Protection: Offers advanced data lifecycle management and communication compliance3.
  • Enhanced Agent Capabilities: Allows IT admins to build and manage organization-wide agents, with advanced measurement and reporting tools1.
  • Enterprise Data Protection: As long as you are logged in with your Virginia Tech account, you are covered by Microsoft's Enterprise Data Protection agreement. More information can be found in this Knowledge Base article, https://4help.vt.edu/sp?id=kb_article&sysparm_article=KB0014762.

Summary

While both versions of Copilot offer powerful AI-driven assistance, the free version is ideal for individual users and small teams looking for basic productivity enhancements. In contrast, the licensed version is tailored for enterprise users, offering deeper integration with Microsoft 365 apps, advanced security features, and comprehensive management tools.
 

Additional information

  1. Copilot for all: Introducing Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat
  2. Announcing Free, Unlimited Access to Think Deeper and Voice
  3. Which Copilot Plan Is Right for You?
  4. Compare Microsoft 365 Copilot features in E3 and E5 licenses
  5. License options for Microsoft 365 Copilot
  6. Microsoft 365 Copilot for Enterprise—Pricing and Features