Microsoft Copilot Revolutionized: Free Access to OpenAI's o1 Model

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If you’re someone who routinely uses Microsoft’s Copilot for work, learning, or entertainment, well, buckle up because things just got a whole lot better. Microsoft has announced that the OpenAI o1 reasoning model, previously a premium perk for Copilot Pro and ChatGPT Plus subscribers, is now accessible to all users—for free. Yes, you read that right. What was once a costly, exclusive feature is now democratically available, and Microsoft promises that it will completely revamp your AI experience.
So, what’s the big deal about integrating the o1 model? Let’s break all this down, one byte at a time.

s o1 Model'. A futuristic holographic display shows the Copilot logo and tagline in an office setting.
What Exactly Is the o1 Model?

Think of OpenAI’s o1 model as the brainiac cousin of the GPT-4 line. It’s designed to handle multi-layered, intricate queries that require not just knowledge, but a high degree of logical reasoning. Unlike conventional AI responses that put things together at lightning speed (sometimes sacrificing depth for speed), the o1 model is all about structured problem-solving and comprehensive answers.
At the heart of this upgrade lies Think Deeper, a feature within Copilot that allows the AI to chew—and I mean really chew—on the information before dishing it out. Think Deeper doesn’t just skim the surface; it takes about 30 seconds to process a query from several perspectives before producing a logically sound, detailed response. In short, it’s not just fast food—it’s a multi-course gourmet meal equipped to resolve the most tangled questions you can throw its way.

What Makes Think Deeper a Game-Changer?

First introduced in October 2024 as part of Microsoft’s Copilot Labs beta-testing program, Think Deeper enabled Copilot Pro users to experiment with richer AI capabilities. Now, it’s available to everyone. But here’s the kicker—this isn’t just about fancy tech phrases to lure users; this is a tangible difference in how you interact with AI.

Key Features of Think Deeper

  • Multi-Layered Queries Decoded: It can handle questions with multiple components and provide a step-by-step breakdown. Imagine asking, “What’s the best way to transition into a data science career given my background in marketing?” and receiving a comprehensive, actionable career roadmap.
  • Logical Decision Making: Think Deeper compares options intelligently. Should you invest in cryptocurrency or real estate? Should you accept Job Offer A or Job Offer B? Instead of vague recommendations, you get logically reasoned pros and cons.
  • Learning Assistance: From breaking down complex scientific concepts to dissecting historical events, Think Deeper transforms the way you learn. This isn’t a high-school essay-level response—it’s detailed, nuanced, and very close to what an expert might draft.
  • Tailored Roadmaps: Whether you're planning fitness goals, a budget-friendly holiday, or a massive work project, the o1 model provides contextualized, step-by-step plans.
The versatility of Think Deeper is unprecedented, and it widens the playing field for everyone from students cramming for exams to professionals brainstorming strategic pitches.

A Strategic Shift in AI Accessibility

Let’s be candid for a second—Microsoft integrating the o1 model with Think Deeper for free? It's not just a move to enhance the user experience; it’s a strategic flex against its competitors. Offering such a powerful feature to all users puts Copilot in a direct head-to-head with OpenAI’s premium ChatGPT Plus service and others, like Jasper or even Notion AI, that emphasize enhanced parsing.
But there’s more to this than just competition. Mustafa Suleyman, Microsoft’s AI CEO, stated that “tens of millions” of users will now benefit from this advanced reasoning tool. This signals a deliberate shift to democratize AI—at least on the surface—and make powerful tools like advanced reasoning models available to the masses.
Behind the scenes, this move likely aligns with Microsoft’s growing ambition to reduce its dependence on OpenAI. After all, OpenAI is still very much a partner, with Microsoft deeply invested in their foundation products (think Azure AI and other SaaS products). But clearly, Microsoft envisions a future where it brings more of its AI capabilities in-house.

What Users Are Saying: Why You Should Test It Out NOW

Users who’ve had the chance to utilize Think Deeper have raved about the productivity it enables, especially in specific use cases:
  • Career Planning: Trying to switch fields or move up in your industry? Copilot can break down your dream role into actionable steps—think skills to learn, connections to build, and even creating a timeline.
  • Critical Decisions: Hey, life throws curveballs. Maybe you’re deciding on a home loan option or considering which streaming platform to subscribe to. Copilot now gives you well-reasoned answers backed by data trends.
  • Big Projects: Those wrestling with large-scale goals—whether it’s hitting fitness milestones, managing quarterly corporate targets, or even simplifying wedding planning—get a structured roadmap down to the nitty-gritty.
  • Enhanced Learning: Students, rejoice! Topics like “Quantum Entanglement” or “The History of World War II” are no longer just something you toss into Google and skim Wikipedia for. Get ready for actual, education-grade breakdowns.

How to Start Using Think Deeper in Copilot

Here’s the thrill: you don’t have to jump through hoops to access this shiny new toy. Think Deeper is already integrated within Copilot, so as long as you have access to Office 365 or are using Windows 11 with Copilot enabled, here’s how it works:
  • Invoke Copilot: Launch it directly within Windows 11, Teams, or Microsoft apps like Word, Excel, or Outlook.
  • Enter Complex Queries: To see Think Deeper’s magic, input a question that’s layered or involves logical decision-making.
  • Wait for Analysis: Yes, you’ll need to wait around 30 seconds for that deep analysis as Think Deeper crafts the response.
  • Enjoy the Answer: Once the AI presents the output, you’ll notice that responses are more elaborate, nuanced, and structured compared to the usual pithy answers.

The Bigger Picture: Democratizing AI or an Aggressive Strategy?

Offering Think Deeper for free is part of a larger trend among tech giants to democratize advanced AI. It’s a win-win for users, but let’s not ignore the elephant in the room—Microsoft is also flexing its muscles, subtly dominating the AI landscape. In doing so, it's blurring the lines between what should be “premium” AI features and what’s now considered table stakes.
Should competitors worry? Absolutely. For now, this is just a tip of the iceberg for what Microsoft has in store for its Copilot ecosystem.
If you’re already a Copilot user, there’s really no excuse not to try Think Deeper. And if you haven’t given Copilot a shot yet, well, this might just be the golden ticket to make everyday tasks easier, faster, and (dare I say) a little fun.

What do you think about this monumental shift? Let us know in the comments below and share how you’ve used Think Deeper!

Source: Gizbot You Can Now Use OpenAI’s Most Advanced o1 Model for Free in Copilot—Here’s How
 

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