Microsoft adds deep analytics and research tools to 365 Copilot
By ForGeeks Microsoft has unveiled a new AI-powered “deep learning” tool in Microsoft 365 Copilot, which will be part of the company’s proprietary chatbot.
What is deep learning in AI?
In recent times, “deep learning” technologies have been actively developed in chatbots such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini and xAI’s Grok. These are based on so-called reasoning models, which have the ability to analyze complex problems and verify their own conclusions. This makes them useful for serious research and data analysis.
Microsoft’s new tools: Researcher and Analyst
Microsoft is introducing two such tools: Researcher and Analyst.
Researcher uses the advanced OpenAI model underlying ChatGPT Deep Research, as well as advanced search and analysis mechanisms. Microsoft claims the tool is capable of performing complex research, including developing go-to-market strategies and preparing quarterly reports for customers.
Microsoft claims the tool is capable of performing complex research, including developing go-to-market strategies and preparing quarterly reports for customers.
Analyst is built on the OpenAI o3-mini reasoning model and is optimized for advanced data analysis. It solves problems step-by-step, refining its “logic” and providing detailed answers. Analyst can also use the Python programming language for complex queries and makes its workflow available for inspection.
Analyst can also use the Python programming language for complex queries and makes its workflow available for inspection.
Microsoft’s advantage is integration with enterprise data
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Unlike competitors, Researcher and Analyst can work not only with open data on the web, but also with corporate sources. They can pull information through third-party connectors, integrating with services such as Confluence, ServiceNow, and Salesforce.
They can integrate with services such as Confluence, ServiceNow, and Salesforce.
Problems and Limitations
Despite all the advantages, deep research technologies have weaknesses. Models such as o3-mini and deep research sometimes make mistakes, misquote sources, or use unreliable data. This remains a key challenge for such solutions.
Despite the advantages of deep research technologies, there are weaknesses.
How do I access new features?
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Microsoft is launching a Frontier program where Microsoft 365 Copilot users can be the first to try out Researcher and Analyst. Frontier members will have access to the new tools starting in April, with other experimental Copilot features to be tested in the future as part of the program.
