Microsoft Enhances Copilot with ChatGPT-Style Interface and New “Mode” Buttons

Microsoft Enhances Copilot with ChatGPT-Style Interface and New “Mode” Buttons

There’s no denying that Microsoft has been busy refining the Copilot interface. The latest update marks at least the sixth significant change, moving the chat history functionality to a newly designed sidebar on the left. Previously, users accessed their chat logs via a pop-up adjacent to the text box, but this new layout promises to enhance the overall user experience.

In September 2024, a comprehensive redesign transformed Copilot’s interface significantly. As noted by Windows Latest, the revamp drew inspiration from Pi AI, a venture led by Mustafa Suleyman, a key player in Microsoft’s AI initiatives. This overhaul initially did away with the left sidebar, opting for a pop-up to manage chat history.

Old Copilot design showing history button

The image above depicts the former Copilot design, unveiled in September 2024. Prior to this latest change, accessing your chat history involved clicking a dedicated button that brought up a window over the chat interface.

Old Copilot history button interface

Users appreciated this approach, but Microsoft’s usage data indicated a preference for a more accessible chat history option. By integrating it into the sidebar, users can quickly toggle between ongoing chats and past conversations with ease.

Experience the New Copilot Interface

New Copilot UI featuring chat history panel
The refreshed Copilot UI now showcases a chat history panel, drawing parallels with ChatGPT.| Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

Beginning this week, users will begin to notice the updated Copilot interface, which reinstates the chat history panel akin to ChatGPT’s design. The interface not only introduces a familiar layout but also incorporates icons similar to those found within ChatGPT, enhancing the visual coherence.

Comparison between ChatGPT and Copilot
A side-by-side comparison of ChatGPT and Copilot’s design layout.| Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

Moreover, the updated layout includes a feature allowing users to collapse the history panel, providing more space for engaging with the chat window. An exciting addition is the “Discover” button, which opens doors to exploring various topics and accessing the Copilot Daily, a podcast curating key global news highlights.

This Discover feature enriches the Copilot experience by showcasing not just functionalities but also providing users with diverse ways to interact with the AI—from discovering recipes to managing finances effectively.

Introducing New Modes for Enhanced Interaction

Microsoft is committed to demystifying how Copilot can be utilized across different contexts.

Copilot modes showing Quick and Think Deeper options
Copilot’s new modes: Quick and Think Deeper.| Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com

In the past, Copilot offered a singular toggle for the “Think Deeper” function, harnessing ChatGPT’s reasoning capability. Now, users can switch between two modes: “Quick” for rapid responses and “Think Deeper” for more complex requests. The Quick mode typically delivers replies in a couple of seconds, ideal for casual conversations, while the Think Deeper mode engages in deeper analysis, taking about 30 seconds to generate responses. This mode is described as “unlimited, ”allowing users to utilize it without restrictions, unlike some other services, such as ChatGPT, which limits engagements under its premium subscriptions.

With future updates in the pipeline, which could introduce even more modes, users can anticipate a more versatile Copilot that goes beyond simple interactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the major changes in the new Copilot interface?

The latest update shifts the chat history to a sidebar for easier access, adopts a design reminiscent of ChatGPT, and introduces modes like Quick and Think Deeper for varied interactions.

2. How does the “Think Deeper”mode function?

The “Think Deeper”mode delivers thorough responses by utilizing advanced reasoning capabilities. It may take approximately 30 seconds to generate these responses, making it suitable for more complex inquiries.

3. Can I still access my chat history in the new layout?

Absolutely! The chat history is now prominently displayed in a sidebar, allowing you to quickly switch between your current conversation and past interactions for enhanced usability.

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