Microsoft is expanding its AI capabilities by introducing new deep research tools in Microsoft 365 Copilot. These tools, named Researcher and Analyst, are designed to improve problem-solving and fact-checking, making in-depth research more efficient and reliable.
Microsoft introduces Researcher and Analyst
AI-powered research tools have gained traction across various chatbot platforms, with OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, and xAI’s Grok leading the way. These tools use advanced reasoning AI models to analyse data, verify facts, and develop strategic insights. Microsoft’s latest additions to Copilot—Researcher and Analyst—aim to offer similar functionality but with a unique edge.
The researcher combines OpenAI’s deep research model, which powers ChatGPT’s research tool, with Microsoft’s “advanced orchestration” and “deep search capabilities.” This allows it to perform high-level tasks such as crafting go-to-market strategies and generating quarterly client reports.
Meanwhile, Analyst is built on OpenAI’s o3-mini reasoning model and optimised for advanced data analysis. It refines its responses step-by-step and can also execute Python scripts to handle complex data queries. Microsoft has emphasised that Analyst is designed to make its analytical process transparent, enabling users to inspect how it arrives at its conclusions.
A key advantage: Access to work data and external sources
Microsoft’s deep research tools can pull from internal company data and the wider internet. Researchers can integrate with third-party data connectors to gather insights from Confluence, ServiceNow, and Salesforce, making them more versatile and applicable across different business environments.
However, maintaining accuracy is one of the main challenges for AI-driven research tools. While models like o3-mini and deep research are powerful, they are imperfect. Concerns about occasional misinformation, incorrect citations, and unreliable sources influence responses. Microsoft acknowledges these risks and is refining its AI models to improve reliability.
Exclusive access through Microsoft’s Frontier program
Microsoft is launching the Frontier program to provide early access to Researcher and Analyst. This initiative will allow Microsoft 365 Copilot users to test new experimental features before a wider release. Users enrolled in Frontier will gain access to Researcher and Analyst starting in April, giving them a first look at these advanced AI-powered research tools before they are available to the broader public.
