Microsoft Expands Copilot with Groups, Real‑Talk Mode, and New Voice Character

Microsoft is rolling out major updates to its consumer Copilot AI assistant, adding a group chat feature that supports up to 32 participants, an optional “real talk” mode that matches users' tone and adds wit, and a new voice‑mode character named Mico. The updates also enhance Copilot’s memory capabilities, letting users see and delete stored facts, and improve health‑related answers with trusted sources. While the changes launch in the U.S. consumer version first, Microsoft hints at future extensions to its business‑focused Microsoft 365 Copilot.

Overview of the Latest Copilot Enhancements

Microsoft announced a suite of new features for its consumer Copilot AI assistant, aiming to make the tool more social, personalized, and trustworthy. The rollout includes a group chat capability, an optional “real talk” conversational mode, upgraded memory controls, and a refreshed voice‑mode experience featuring a character called Mico. These changes are initially available in the United States for the consumer version of Copilot, with the possibility of later expansion to the Microsoft 365 Copilot suite used by businesses.

Copilot Groups: Collaborative AI Chats

Copilot Groups lets multiple users join a single AI‑powered conversation. The feature supports up to 32 participants, allowing friends, classmates, or teammates to plan events, solve problems, or brainstorm together with Copilot’s assistance. Microsoft positions the feature for small‑group dynamics, suggesting that two‑ or three‑person groups may dominate early usage. Although the launch is limited to the consumer version, Microsoft executives anticipate that the capability will prove valuable in workplace settings once integrated with Microsoft 365.

Real‑Talk Mode: A More Personality‑Driven Assistant

The new “real talk” mode gives Copilot a more expressive voice. When activated, the assistant mirrors the user’s tone, adds its own perspective, and can respond with a touch of wit. It also challenges users rather than simply agreeing with every statement. Real‑talk is not the default setting; users select it from a dropdown menu, and it currently applies only to text interactions, not voice mode. The mode revives some of the early, more outspoken personality that the Bing AI chatbot exhibited, though it stops short of the full “sassiness” of that earlier version.

Enhanced Memory Controls

Copilot’s memory system now allows the assistant to retain facts about a user’s life, relationships, and ongoing projects. Users can view a list of everything Copilot knows and delete specific items, providing greater transparency and control. The memory improvements also support the real‑talk mode, enabling the assistant to reference stored information in a more nuanced way. Additionally, users can command Copilot via voice to forget particular details, such as information about a partner.

Mico: A New Voice‑Mode Companion

Microsoft introduced Mico, a Clippy‑like character that animates during voice‑mode interactions. Mico reacts with real‑time facial expressions and moves around the Copilot window, adding a visual element to spoken conversations. The character also supports a “Learn Live” tutoring mode, allowing users to receive step‑by‑step guidance on various topics.

Improved Health‑Related Answers

Copilot’s responses to health queries now draw from trusted sources, including Harvard Health, to improve accuracy and credibility. The assistant can also help users locate doctors quickly, matching preferences such as location and language.

Future Outlook

While the updates debut in the U.S. consumer version, Microsoft’s leadership hints at broader adoption across its enterprise offerings. Executives believe the collaborative and personality‑rich features will be especially beneficial in work contexts, suggesting that future integration with Microsoft 365 could enhance productivity and teamwork.