Microsoft has recently announced that it will make OpenAI o1 model, which was previously available only through expensive subscriptions, free for Windows users. This announcement is part of a major change introduced in Copilot’s new “Think Deeper” feature, providing users with powerful AI capabilities at no cost.
What is the o1 Model?
The o1 model is an advanced AI system developed by OpenAI, released in December. It was designed to provide top-tier AI reasoning, capable of solving complex problems and providing detailed responses. While initially available only through costly subscriptions—$200/month for ChatGPT Pro or $20/month for ChatGPT Plus—it is now available for free via Microsoft’s Copilot.
| Model | Price | Access |
|---|---|---|
| ChatGPT Pro | $200/month | Unlimited Access |
| ChatGPT Plus | $20/month | Limited Access |
| Copilot Think Deeper | Free | Unlimited Access |
How Does Think Deeper Work?
Think Deeper is a feature within Copilot, Microsoft’s AI tool, that enhances the power of the o1 model. When enabled, Think Deeper allows Copilot to take more time to consider the query and generate a thoughtful, detailed response. This feature focuses on “evergreen” content, meaning it excels at providing in-depth, long-lasting answers to broad, research-based questions.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type of Questions | In-depth, evergreen research |
| Usage Examples | Analysis of events, explaining processes |
| Response Time | A few seconds for thoughtful answers |
Unlike a search engine, Think Deeper is not designed for immediate, factual responses. It is meant to generate well-researched and thoughtful information. For example, when asked to explain complex scientific concepts or analyze historical events, Think Deeper takes a few moments to gather relevant data and provide a detailed explanation.
How to Use Think Deeper
To use the Think Deeper feature, you simply need to ensure that the toggle is turned “on” within the Copilot interface. Once activated, users can ask Copilot more detailed questions. The app, which is now available as a Progressive Web App (PWA) on Windows, can be accessed via the Copilot app or through the Copilot website at copilot.microsoft.com. Just sign in with a Microsoft account, and you’re ready to go.
| Steps to Use Think Deeper | Details |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Open Copilot on Windows |
| Step 2 | Turn on “Think Deeper” toggle |
| Step 3 | Enter your question |
| Step 4 | Wait for detailed response |
Why is This Important?
This move by Microsoft is significant because it provides free access to one of the most powerful AI models on the market today. Previously, OpenAI’s o1 model was behind a paywall, with costs reaching up to $200/month. With the introduction of the Think Deeper feature, Microsoft is giving users access to cutting-edge AI at no cost, democratizing access to advanced tools for individuals and businesses alike.
What’s Next for Microsoft AI?
As AI technology continues to evolve rapidly, Microsoft’s move with Think Deeper is just one step in a larger trend of making advanced tools more accessible. OpenAI has already introduced the o3 model, which offers even more powerful capabilities, but it is unlikely to be offered for free.
| Future Developments | Details |
|---|---|
| Next Model (o3) | More powerful, not free |
| Charge for Think Deeper? | No current plans to charge |
For now, Think Deeper remains free, providing valuable insights and enhancing productivity for users around the world.
This announcement could reshape the way businesses and individuals interact with AI, offering powerful capabilities without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re working on research, programming, or simply need thoughtful insights, Copilot’s Think Deeper is a tool worth exploring.
