Microsoft Expands AI Offerings with Free Access to Voice and Think Deeper

For users of Microsoft’s Copilot, a new suite of artificial intelligence tools is now available. Microsoft has announced unlimited free access to Voice and Think Deeper on its free tier. Voice allows users to interact with the AI using verbal commands, while Think Deeper handles more complex queries, powered by OpenAI’s O1 Model.

Copilot, launched in 2022, is Microsoft’s entry into the competitive world of AI chatbots, competing with the likes of Opic’s AAIP and Google’s Gemini. As tech giants vie for dominance, new entrants like DeepSeek from China continue to release AI-powered features, often providing them for free. These new features from Microsoft, Voice and Think Deeper, offer varied interfaces, allowing users to engage with AI in different ways.

CNET Senior Editor Lori Grunin tested Think Deeper and noted, “It’s free, but at one point it stopped providing new answers to refined queries and a ‘Get the full Copilot experience’ popup tried to get me to sign in.” She also mentioned that it didn’t obey specific parameters during her test.

Voice, on the other hand, greeted me like a voice assistant, letting me know I can chat to it “just like with a mate” (it had a male, British accent, though it noted I could change how it sounded in the settings) and asking me my name.

Its follow-up question, after mispronouncing my name, was the ever-generic: “What’s on your mind?” I asked it the weather in my city, and it gave me up-to-date information as well as a recommendation to get “out and about” in the unseasonably sunny, warm weather. But it then told me I only had 2 minutes remaining of Voice time. So you really do have to create an account and sign in to get that unlimited access announced today. (When I closed the voice chat, Copilot gave me a transcript of our call.)

You can become a Copilot user for free — just sign up using a Microsoft email address. The free version limits what features you have access to, slows down your responses after 15 “boosts” per day and only gives you access to the latest models during non-peak times. There’s a paid tier called Copilot Pro ($20/month) and an enterprise version that starts at $30 per user per month.

Microsoft suggests using Voice for practicing a new language, asking it to help you practice for a job interview, or getting cooking advice while your hands are busy in the kitchen — kind of like a voice assistant. For Think Deeper, Microsoft says some of the more complex issues it can help you with are comparing electric vehicles, asking for home renovation advice, and checking for the pros and cons of buying a generator for outages.

As with all AI tools, you should be wary of what it advises you to do. CNET recommends double-checking everything it comes back with — whether it’s on-the-fly cooking advice that may lead you astray thanks to a hallucination or coming up with a savings plan that makes no financial sense.

You also shouldn’t ever tell an AI chatbot any of your personal details, including financial information, lest a data breach leak it to malefactors.

That said, our CNET review found Copilot to be one of the better AI tools, giving it a 7/10 as it generally provides accurate and relevant information. Senior writer Imad Khan does recommend Anthropic’s Claude as the best AI chatbot, however, saying it “does a consistent job and goes further than what’s coming out of Google, Microsoft, Perplexity and OpenAI at the free tier.”

Practical Applications and Real-World Examples

Copilot’s new features, Voice and Think Deeper, have practical applications that can significantly enhance daily life. For instance, Voice can be particularly useful for multitasking. Imagine you’re cooking a complex recipe and need to keep your hands free. You can ask Voice for step-by-step instructions, set timers, or even get recommendations for what to pair with your meal. This hands-free interaction can make cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

Think Deeper, on the other hand, can be a game-changer for decision-making processes. For example, if you’re in the market for a new car, Think Deeper can help you compare different electric vehicle models, taking into account factors like range, charging times, and environmental impact. This level of detailed analysis can help you make an informed decision without the need for extensive research.

In the realm of home improvement, Think Deeper can provide comprehensive advice on home renovations. Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel or considering solar panel installation, Think Deeper can offer insights into cost-effectiveness, energy savings, and long-term benefits. This can be particularly useful for homeowners looking to increase their property value or reduce their carbon footprint.

Potential Counterarguments and Criticisms

While the new features offer numerous benefits, there are potential counterarguments and criticisms to consider. One concern is the accuracy and reliability of the information provided by AI tools. As noted, AI can sometimes produce hallucinations, leading to incorrect or misleading advice. Users should always verify the information with reliable sources before making important decisions.

Another concern is the potential for data breaches. While Microsoft assures users that their data is secure, the risk of a data breach is always present. Users should be cautious about sharing personal information with AI tools and ensure they understand the privacy policies and security measures in place.

Future Developments and Implications

The introduction of Voice and Think Deeper marks a significant step forward in the evolution of AI chatbots. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more sophisticated features and capabilities. For instance, future developments may include more personalized interactions, improved natural language processing, and enhanced integration with other digital services.

These advancements have broader implications for various sectors, including education, healthcare, and customer service. In education, AI chatbots can provide personalized learning experiences, helping students understand complex concepts more effectively. In healthcare, AI can assist in diagnosing conditions, providing treatment recommendations, and monitoring patient progress. In customer service, AI can offer 24/7 support, resolving issues quickly and efficiently.

The competition among tech giants like Microsoft, Google, and new entrants like DeepSeek is driving innovation in the AI space. As these companies continue to release new features and tools, users can expect to see more advanced and user-friendly AI solutions. However, it’s crucial for users to stay informed about the capabilities and limitations of these tools to make the most of their benefits while mitigating potential risks.