Introducing Mico: Microsoft's New Virtual Assistant

Microsoft has unveiled Mico – a new virtual character for its voice-operated Copilot, serving as a modern take on the iconic Clippy from Microsoft Office. This innovative assistant responds to user commands in real-time, expressing emotions through animations and facial expressions.
As Jacob Andreu, Vice President of Microsoft AI for Products and Development, explained, "Mico is designed to make interaction with Copilot feel more natural: technology takes a backseat, and you simply engage with a charming character, building a connection."
Currently, Mico is available only in the United States, with animations activated by default in the voice mode of Copilot. The assistant utilizes an enhanced memory system that allows it to remember facts about the user and their work.
Microsoft is also introducing a Learn Live mode, turning Mico into an interactive tutor. In this mode, it helps users navigate educational topics using visual cues and a virtual whiteboard, particularly aimed at students and language learners.
The launch of Mico is part of Microsoft's strategy to develop a distinct "personality" for Copilot. Earlier, Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman stated that the assistant would have a consistent identity and even a "virtual room."
Mico is also featured in a new advertising campaign 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 challenge of convincing people that conversing with a computer is not odd.
According to Andreu, Mico includes an Easter egg dedicated to Clippy: if you tap the character quickly, you can see a special reaction – a nostalgic "hello" from the past.
Additionally, Microsoft recently introduced the experimental feature Copilot Portraits, which allows users to select animated human faces for Copilot.