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Microsoft 365 has taken a significant step by integrating Copilot AI into Personal and Family subscriptions. This update brings AI-assisted productivity to widely used Office apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Outlook. While the addition of AI tools enhances workflow efficiency, it also introduces new considerations, including usage limits and a subscription price increase.
As of January 16, Microsoft 365 subscribers in most markets worldwide began seeing Copilot features included in their accounts. Unlike workplace plans that require separate payments for AI tools, individual subscribers now automatically gain access to a limited AI experience. Each user receives 60 AI credits per month, which cover tasks across Office apps and other Microsoft software like Designer, Paint, Photos, and Notepad. Once the limit is reached, subscribers can upgrade to Copilot Pro at $20 per month to continue using AI features. Essentially, this setup offers a “trial” of Copilot capabilities within the standard subscription.
The price of Microsoft 365 has also been adjusted to account for AI integration. In the United States, the Personal plan now costs $100 per year, up from $70, while the Family plan increased to $130, from $100 annually. This marks the first price hike since Microsoft launched the subscription service in 2013. While the increase is modest, it has sparked interest among subscribers who may not require AI functionality for their day-to-day tasks.
For users who want to avoid paying more while retaining full access to Office applications, Microsoft Office Keys [[url]https://www.igxc.com/category-microsoft.html][/url] offer a viable alternative. Purchasing Office Keys provides a one-time license for Office apps, granting users access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other essential tools without a recurring subscription. This approach is especially appealing for households or individuals who rely on Office apps but do not need AI features like Copilot.
Using Copilot in Microsoft 365 is straightforward. The Copilot icon appears on the Office ribbon, next to selected text, or via the Alt+i shortcut. Users can draft or rewrite text, explore data in Excel, and even generate slides in PowerPoint with AI assistance. The Copilot sidebar displays AI credit usage, enabling users to monitor how many tasks they can perform each month. This visibility helps subscribers manage usage and decide if upgrading to Copilot Pro is necessary.
The introduction of Copilot AI reflects Microsoft’s broader push to embed AI across its productivity suite, following trends set by competitors like Google. For many users, these AI tools represent a significant boost in productivity. However, for those focused on cost control or who rarely use AI, switching to one-time Office purchases via Microsoft 365 Subscription [[url]https://www.igxc.com/category-microsoft.html][/url] or carefully managing subscriptions offers an effective strategy. By understanding the AI credit limits and subscription pricing, Microsoft 365 users can make informed decisions that balance productivity with cost-efficiency.