Microsoft has unveiled Mico, a modern interpretation of the iconic Clippy, designed for the voice mode of Copilot. This new assistant responds to user commands in real-time, expressing emotions through facial expressions and animations.
According to Jacob Andreu, Vice President of Microsoft AI Products and Development, Mico is created to facilitate a more natural interaction: "Technology fades into the background – you simply engage with a charming glowing object and build a connection."
Currently, Mico is only available in the USA, with animations enabled by default in Copilot's voice mode. The assistant utilizes an updated memory system that allows it to remember facts about the user and their work.
Microsoft is also introducing the Learn Live mode, turning Mico into an interactive tutor. In this mode, it helps users navigate educational topics using visual aids and a virtual whiteboard, aimed at students and language learners.
The launch of Mico is part of Microsoft's strategy to develop a distinctive "personality" for Copilot. Previously, Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman stated that the assistant would have a consistent identity and even a "virtual room."
Mico accompanies a new advertising campaign by Microsoft promoting Windows 11 as a "computer you can talk to." The company hopes that Mico will help users interact with AI more naturally, although it faces the challenging task of convincing people that talking to a computer is not strange.
According to Andreu, Mico contains an Easter egg dedicated to Clippy: if you tap the character quickly, you can see a special reaction – a kind of "hello" from the past.
Additionally, Microsoft recently introduced the experimental Copilot Portraits feature, allowing users to choose animated human faces for Copilot.