Microsoft has unveiled a cutting-edge AI-powered deep research tool, integrated into its Microsoft 365 Copilot application. This new feature comes at a time when AI technologies are evolving rapidly, with notable contenders such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, and xAI’s Grok also introducing similar capabilities. At the core of these tools are advanced reasoning AI models that excel in problem-solving and self-verification—crucial traits for conducting thorough research.
The new tools from Microsoft, known as Researcher and Analyst, leverage state-of-the-art AI models to help users conduct comprehensive research efficiently. Researcher combines OpenAI’s deep research capabilities with ‘advanced orchestration’ and ‘deep search functionalities.’ According to Microsoft, this tool is designed to carry out complex analyses, including formulating go-to-market strategies and compiling detailed quarterly reports for clients.
In contrast, Analyst utilizes OpenAI’s o3-mini reasoning framework, focused explicitly on advanced data analysis. The Analyst tool incrementally addresses problems, refining its logic to deliver deep insights into user inquiries. Notably, it can execute Python programming scripts for sophisticated data queries, enabling it to provide detailed outputs that can be examined for accuracy.
What sets Microsoft’s tools apart from their competitors is the integration with organizational work data and extensive web access. For instance, Researcher can interface with third-party data sources, pulling relevant information from various AI agents, applications, and platforms like Confluence, ServiceNow, and Salesforce.
However, a significant challenge remains: preventing these AI models from generating inaccuracies or ‘hallucinations.’ Despite advancements, tools like Researcher and Analyst are not infallible; they occasionally misattribute sources, arrive at erroneous conclusions, or reference unreliable public websites in their reasoning.
To facilitate early access, Microsoft has initiated a Frontier program, allowing subscribers of Microsoft 365 Copilot to utilize Researcher and Analyst starting in April. Participants in this program will receive access to innovative Copilot features ahead of the wider rollout, emphasizing Microsoft’s commitment to leading the charge in AI-driven productivity solutions.