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Source: Tech in Asia https://www.techinasia.com/news/microsoft-reportedly-prepares-gpt5-copilot-smart-mode/
Microsoft Prepares for GPT-5 and Copilot 'Smart Mode'
Main Points
1. References to GPT-5 in Copilot- Microsoft’s Copilot web app contains references to GPT-5, suggesting upcoming integration of OpenAI’s next-generation model.
- The new “smart mode” is described as allowing Copilot to automatically select the best AI model for each user request, reducing the user’s need to choose models manually.
- As of now, internal Copilot versions still use GPT-4, and there is no official mention of GPT-5 in the app interface.
- Microsoft gets early access to new OpenAI models via its exclusive, multi-billion-dollar partnership with OpenAI (started with a $1B investment in 2019 and expanded since).
- Microsoft has a demonstrated history of deploying OpenAI’s latest models before public announcement—such as the early integration of GPT-4 in Bing and the “o1” reasoning model in Copilot.
- This privileged access gives Microsoft a competitive edge: they can refine deployments and gather feedback before their rivals.
- Copilot’s “smart mode” follows an industry trend: major tech companies want to simplify AI use for end-users by hiding model selection complexity.
- Google offers a similar feature (AI Mode) that auto-selects the best-suited AI model/capability for each query, reportedly boosting complex search usage by 10%.
- The competitive advantage is moving away from merely having the “best” model, to delivering a seamless, intelligent interface that selects and orchestrates models behind the scenes.
Recent Microsoft Developments
- Copilot has been quickly adopting new OpenAI advances, including unannounced and experimental models.
- Microsoft declined comment on GPT-5 references or smart mode details.
- Tech in Asia article
- The Verge (referenced in your text as a primary source).
What This Means
- For Users: Expect Microsoft Copilot to become even easier and more powerful, as it will decide which AI model is best for your needs, without manual intervention.
- For AI industry: The battle is shifting from pure model capability to orchestration and user experience. "Smart" interfaces that abstract model choices could become the new standard.
- For competitors: Microsoft's exclusive and early access to OpenAI models allows it to stay ahead in commercial AI deployment.
Source: Tech in Asia https://www.techinasia.com/news/microsoft-reportedly-prepares-gpt5-copilot-smart-mode/
