Microsoft Copilot+ Daily news digest, 07-29-2024

Executive summary:

In analyzing the recent news surrounding Microsoft Copilot+, several key categories emerge that highlight both the strengths and challenges of this new AI-powered platform.

Battery Life is a standout feature for many of the devices utilizing Copilot+. For instance, the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge boasts an impressive battery life of nearly 14.5 hours, while the HP EliteBook Ultra G1q can last up to 19 hours and 32 minutes under optimal conditions. This extended battery performance is particularly beneficial for users who require long-lasting power for productivity on the go, making these devices appealing for business and personal use alike.

System Performance presents a mixed picture. The Samsung device is noted for its strong performance with the Snapdragon X Elite X1E84100 CPU, achieving the best benchmark scores among Copilot+ PCs for CPU-driven tasks. However, concerns arise regarding graphics performance and the overall speed of complex tasks, particularly with the HP EliteBook, which struggles with Matlab simulations compared to traditional Intel or ARM systems. This inconsistency in performance may affect user experience, especially for those engaged in demanding applications.

Hardware features are generally well-received, with devices like the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge offering a large touchscreen and a lightweight design, enhancing usability. However, some hardware aspects, such as the short key travel on the keyboard and the small arrow keys, have been criticized, indicating that while the design is innovative, it may not cater to all user preferences. The HP EliteBook also faces limitations with its port selection, which could hinder connectivity options for some users.

Software compatibility remains a significant concern. While many applications run smoothly on Copilot+ devices due to the Prism emulation layer, there are notable issues with legacy software designed for x86 architecture, which could impede enterprise adoption. Additionally, the installation of certain applications, like Google's Quick Share, requires workarounds that may not be user-friendly, particularly for those less tech-savvy. This reliance on emulation and workarounds could limit the platform's appeal in professional environments.

Security and Privacy are enhanced by the local AI capabilities of devices like the HP EliteBook, which offer faster response times and improved privacy compared to cloud-based solutions. This aspect is increasingly important as businesses prioritize data security in their operations. However, the uncertainty regarding the applicability of AI performance benefits across various applications raises questions about the overall effectiveness of these security measures.

In summary, while Microsoft Copilot+ presents a promising advancement in AI technology with notable strengths in battery life and local AI capabilities, challenges in system performance, software compatibility, and hardware design may affect its adoption and user satisfaction. As the platform evolves, addressing these concerns will be crucial for maximizing its potential in both personal and professional settings.

Details

Looking back on FY24: from Copilots empowering human achievement to leading AI Transformation

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://blogs.microsoft.com/blog/2024/07/29/looking-back-on-fy24-from-copilots-empowering-human-achievement-to-leading-ai-transformation/

Microsoft Q4 2024 Earnings Preview: 5 Things To Know

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://www.crn.com/news/ai/2024/microsoft-q4-2024-earnings-preview-5-things-to-know

Samsung’s Copilot+ PC Wins in Power and Has the Battery to Back It Up

Key positive aspects of Copilot+ Key concerns related to Copilot+
Impressive performance with Snapdragon X Elite X1E84100 CPU Lackluster graphics performance
16-inch touchscreen with 2,880 x 1,800-pixel display App compatibility issues
Large touchpad (over 7 inches) for better usability Short key travel on the keyboard
Lightweight design at 3.2 pounds Tiny arrow keys are hard to use
Excellent battery life of almost 14.5 hours Keyboard backlighting is ineffective in low light
Good port selection including USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, and microSD Overly large touchpad can lead to accidental clicks
Best benchmark scores among Copilot+ PCs for CPU-driven tasks Price of $1,500 is higher than some competitors

Source: https://www.wired.com/review/samsung-galaxy-book4-edge-copilot-pc/

Capita to leverage Microsoft Copilot to improve employee experience

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://www.technologyrecord.com/article/capita-to-leverage-microsoft-copilot-to-improve-employee-experience

How to Use Copilot in Microsoft Teams

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://www.lifewire.com/use-copilot-in-microsoft-teams-8682345

How to enable and set up Copilot in Microsoft Teams

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://www.techtarget.com/searchunifiedcommunications/tip/How-to-enable-and-set-up-Copilot-in-Microsoft-Teams

Microsoft reveals more info on how its Copilot services are being used by businesses

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://www.neowin.net/news/microsoft-reveals-more-info-on-how-its-copilot-services-are-being-used-by-businesses/

Living With an HP EliteBook Ultra G1q, a Copilot+ PC for Business

Key positive aspects of Copilot+ Key concerns related to Copilot+
Local AI capabilities offer faster response times and enhanced privacy compared to cloud-based AI. Compatibility issues with legacy software designed for x86 architecture may hinder enterprise adoption.
Excellent battery life, lasting up to 19 hours and 32 minutes under optimal conditions. Performance on complex tasks, such as Matlab simulations, is slower compared to Intel or ARM-based systems.
Solid design with a good size for enterprise use, weighing only 2.9 pounds. Limited port selection compared to previous models, which may affect connectivity options.
High-quality video conferencing features with a 5MP camera and advanced audio setup. Uncertainty about the applicability of AI performance benefits across various applications.
Strong performance on basic tasks and native applications like Microsoft Office. Emulation issues may slow down Excel macros and other complex tasks.
Inclusion of dedicated Copilot key and function keys for quick access to tools. Some features, like Windows Recall, have yet to be released, limiting full functionality.
Support for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, providing decent connectivity options. The higher-end Snapdragon X Elite may not outperform current Intel systems in all scenarios.

Source: https://me.pcmag.com/en/laptops/25025/living-with-an-hp-elitebook-ultra-g1q-a-copilot-pc-for-business

Google's Quick Share app for Windows works on the new ARM Copilot Plus PCs

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://www.androidpolice.com/quick-share-works-windows-arm-copilot-plus-pcs/

Google's Quick Share actually works on the new Copilot Plus Windows PCs

Key positive aspects of Copilot+ Key concerns related to Copilot+
Quick Share can run on Copilot+ PCs using a workaround. Quick Share for Windows fails to install directly on ARM-based Copilot+ PCs.
File transfers using Quick Share are speedy over Wi-Fi. Users need to copy the app from another PC to install it, which is not straightforward.
Most apps run fine on Copilot+ due to the Prism emulation layer. Lack of native ARM support for some popular apps, including Quick Share.
Users can customize the installation by creating shortcuts and modifying the registry. The need for administrator rights to install certain applications can be a barrier.
The potential for future updates from Google to improve compatibility. Reliance on workarounds may deter less tech-savvy users from utilizing the platform effectively.

Source: https://www.androidauthority.com/quick-share-for-windows-on-arm-3465842/