Microsoft is integrating Copilot artificial intelligence features into Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscriptions, accompanied by a price increase, The Verge reports. The cost of subscriptions in the US will increase by $3 per month, with similar adjustments in other regions. However, existing users can opt out of the AI features and remain at the current price.
Previously, Microsoft 365 users had to pay a separate $20/month subscription to Copilot Pro to access AI features in programs such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Now these features will be available in standard Microsoft 365 plans. The update is the result of several months of testing in select regions such as Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Asia, and is now rolling out to most markets worldwide.
Microsoft emphasizes that the goal of this step is to make artificial intelligence tools more accessible, while preserving Copilot Pro for users who need advanced features and early access to innovations.
Despite the integration of artificial intelligence into standard plans, Microsoft will retain the $20 per month price for Copilot Pro, which includes unlimited use of AI features and priority access to updates.
For those who are not interested in AI updates, Microsoft is introducing two new plans: Personal Classic and Family Classic. These plans will be available exclusively to current users during the subscription renewal cycle and will not include new AI features. However, users of these plans will continue to receive security updates and minor enhancements, but will lose access to future innovations.
Microsoft also introduced a new AI credits system available to Microsoft 365 users. They can be used for tasks that require artificial intelligence, such as creating images in the Designer app, as well as in Paint, Photos, and Notepad. Copilot Pro subscribers will receive unlimited credits in accordance with the fair use policy.
In addition, the company is adding settings that will allow users to disable Copilot in Office applications. This feature, aimed at those who are prohibited from using AI due to organizational policies, will be available first in Word and later in Excel and PowerPoint.