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Microsoft's integration of Copilot into OneDrive marks a significant advancement in file management, leveraging artificial intelligence to streamline how users interact with their documents. This feature, available through the OneDrive web interface, offers a suite of tools designed to enhance productivity by providing quick insights, summaries, and comparisons without the need to open individual files.

Accessing Copilot in OneDrive​

To utilize Copilot, navigate to onedrive.live.com and sign in with your Microsoft account. Once logged in, select the files you wish to work with and click the Copilot icon located at the top of the page. This action opens a chat interface where you can input commands or questions related to your files.

Key Features of Copilot in OneDrive​

1. Summarizing Documents​

Copilot can generate concise summaries of your documents, allowing you to grasp the main points without opening each file. To summarize a document:
  • Select the desired file by clicking its checkbox.
  • Click the Copilot icon.
  • In the chat box, type "Summarize this file" or "What is this document about?"
This feature is particularly useful for quickly reviewing lengthy reports or articles.

2. Extracting Specific Information​

If you're searching for particular details within a document, such as dates, names, or action items, Copilot can assist:
  • Select the file.
  • Open Copilot.
  • Ask specific questions like "What dates are mentioned?" or "Who is referenced in this file?"
This functionality saves time by pinpointing relevant information without manual searching.

3. Understanding Excel Data​

For Excel files, Copilot can interpret and explain data without requiring formula knowledge:
  • Select the Excel file.
  • Click the Copilot icon.
  • Inquire, "What is the total of each column?" or "Which category has the highest value?"
This feature simplifies data analysis, making it accessible to users without advanced Excel skills.

4. Drafting Content Based on Files​

Copilot can assist in creating content derived from your documents:
  • Select the relevant document.
  • Instruct Copilot to "Write a summary email based on this" or "Create a to-do list from this document."
This capability is beneficial for drafting communications or planning tasks efficiently.

5. Comparing Multiple Files​

Copilot allows for the comparison of up to five files simultaneously:
  • Select the files you wish to compare.
  • Click the Copilot icon.
  • Choose the "Compare files" option.
Copilot will generate a table highlighting key differences and similarities, aiding in version control and content analysis.

Limitations and Considerations​

While Copilot offers robust features, there are some limitations to be aware of:
  • File Types: Copilot supports various document types, including DOC, DOCX, PPT, PPTX, XLSX, PDF, TXT, RTF, ASPX, HTM, HTML, ODT, and ODP. However, it does not currently support images, videos, or OneNote notebooks.
  • File Size: The tool is restricted to files under 150 MB, with support for larger files expected in future updates.
  • Language Support: Copilot supports multiple languages, including English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish, and Chinese (Simplified). Additional language support is anticipated.
For more detailed information and updates, refer to Microsoft's official support page on Copilot in OneDrive.
In conclusion, Copilot in OneDrive is a powerful AI-driven assistant that enhances file management by providing quick access to information, summaries, and comparisons. By integrating these capabilities directly into OneDrive, Microsoft continues to streamline workflows and boost productivity for users across various sectors.

Source: Guiding Tech How to Use Copilot in OneDrive