In this guide, you will learn what Bing Chat was, how it became Copilot, what it can do today, and how to use it. Additionally, you will see how it compares to ChatGPT. Furthermore, let us trace the journey.
What Was Bing Chat?
Bing Chat launched in February 2023 as Microsoft’s answer to ChatGPT. In addition, it integrated OpenAI’s GPT-4 directly into the Bing search engine, letting users ask questions conversationally and get answers with cited web sources.
Additionally, it was revolutionary at the time: the first major AI chatbot grounded in live web search. Users could chat in the Edge sidebar, and responses included footnotes linking to sources — something ChatGPT did not offer then.
The launch was not without drama. Early versions gave strange, emotional responses that made headlines. Moreover, Microsoft quickly added guardrails and conversation limits.
From Bing Chat to Microsoft Copilot
By late 2023, Microsoft rebranded Bing Chat as Microsoft Copilot. Furthermore, the new name reflected a bigger vision: one AI assistant across Bing, Edge, Windows 11, and Microsoft 365.
In addition, today, “Bing Chat” as a brand is gone. The same technology lives on as Copilot in Bing and Edge — plus dedicated Copilot apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. If you open Bing and start chatting, you are using Copilot.
In 2025, Microsoft upgraded the underlying models to GPT-5 with a “Smart Mode” router: simple queries get fast lightweight models, while complex reasoning escalates to the most powerful AI.
What Copilot (Formerly Bing Chat) Can Do?
- Moreover, Web-grounded answers: responses cite live web sources, reducing hallucinations
- Furthermore, Image generation: create images from text descriptions via Designer
- Deep Research mode: multi-step research reports on complex topics
- In addition, Voice conversations: real-time spoken dialogue
- File uploads: analyze documents, images, and screenshots
- Additionally, Shopping assistant: product comparisons and price tracking
- In fact, Actions: book tickets and reservations via partners like Expedia and OpenTable
- Memory: optional personalization remembering your preferences
How to Use It Today?
The easiest way: visit Bing.com and click the Copilot icon, or open the Edge sidebar. Moreover, Sign in with a free Microsoft account for the full experience.
Windows 11 users get Copilot built into the OS. Mobile users can download the Copilot app. In addition, all versions share the same AI — pick whichever interface suits you.
For the best results, be specific in your prompts. Ask follow-up questions to refine answers. Furthermore, always verify important facts — AI can still make mistakes.
Bing Chat vs. ChatGPT: Key Differences
| Feature | Copilot (Bing) | ChatGPT |
|---|---|---|
| Web access | Built-in, always on | Available but varies by plan |
| Source citations | Yes, footnoted | Sometimes |
| Free tier model | GPT-5 class | Limited |
| Ecosystem | Windows, Edge, M365 | Standalone apps |
| Image generation | Yes (Designer) | Yes (DALL-E) |
In addition, Copilot’s biggest edge is free access to top-tier models with live web grounding. ChatGPT counters with a larger plugin ecosystem and deeper customization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bing Chat still available?
Additionally, Under that name, no — it was rebranded to Microsoft Copilot. The same chat experience lives on in Bing, Edge, and the Copilot apps.
Is Microsoft Copilot free?
Yes, the basic version is free with a Microsoft account. Copilot Pro ($20/month) adds priority access and premium features.
What AI model does Copilot use?
As of 2025, Copilot runs on GPT-5-class models with a Smart Mode router that matches model power to query complexity.
Can Copilot browse the web?
Yes — live web grounding is its signature strength, inherited from Bing Chat. Answers include cited sources you can verify.
Conclusion
Bing Chat grew up into Microsoft Copilot — the same conversational search AI, now woven through Microsoft’s entire ecosystem. Try it free and see what it can do.
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