The future of work is being shaped by artificial intelligence (AI) - but Microsoft's latest foray with the introduction of Copilot in its Office products is causing a lot of trouble. What was announced as an innovative assistant in Word, Excel and the like is increasingly turning into a costly disappointment for many users. But why will Microsoft continue to win despite the massive criticism? A look behind the scenes.

Price increase with AI false start - why Copilot is becoming a nuisance for many

In mid-January 2025, Microsoft launched its AI assistant "Copilot" into the Office world - with a bang. Microsoft 365 users who were looking forward to the promised AI functions were not only confronted with a new technology, but also with a hefty price increase. Subscription prices are said to have risen by up to 30 percent worldwide. The reason? The integration of artificial intelligence. But the sober reality is different: Many users find that Copilot neither makes their work easier nor provides the promised "magical" experience. Instead, all that often remains is frustration - especially when the results of the AI fall far short of expectations.

AI doesn't help - but Microsoft is cashing in big time

Microsoft is asking itself why pay for an AI function that doesn't really work? The unconvincing results of Copilot raise precisely this question. For simple tasks in Word or Excel, the additional AI assistance is often not only unnecessary, but also incorrect. An example? Insider reports show that only a fraction of Copilot products are really useful, while the free competition delivers much better results. Despite these shortcomings, Microsoft charges a high price - for functions that most users probably don't even really need.

Simply do not cancel - Microsoft relies on its market power

Despite all the negative feedback and the dissatisfaction of many customers, Microsoft will not go under. The figures speak for themselves: even if ten percent of the 87 million subscribers were to cancel their Microsoft 365 subscriptions, the software company would still gain 1.7 billion US dollars a year from the additional revenue generated by the price increases. Microsoft is therefore banking on the fact that the majority of customers will continue despite all the criticism - either because they appreciate the integration of Copilot or simply don't want to look for an alternative.

AI must not be a sham - but Microsoft remains the winner

Artificial intelligence should really make work easier - but Microsoft's Copilot shows that the hype does not always deliver the promised results. Rather, it could be that users are being treated to a rather weak function for which they have to dig deep into their pockets. Nevertheless, Microsoft will probably get away with this half-baked AI feature. Its market power and its usual dominance of the software market leave the competition far behind.

AI as a cash cow - Microsoft's risk of losing customers

When it comes to AI and consumer rights, one thing is certain: there is a strong focus on the masses of customers - at the expense of transparency and user-friendliness. It is time for companies like Microsoft to realize that they should not only shine with technology, but also with fair and transparent communication.