In recent years, it has become clear that Microsoft Copilot is evolving from an AI feature based on a single model into a platform that can deploy different AI models depending on the task.
A first visible example of this was the integration of Anthropic’s models—including Claude—into parts of Copilot such as the Researcher agent and Copilot Studio. This made it clear for the first time that Copilot was no longer exclusively dependent on OpenAI technology. According to Microsoft, the Claude models will gradually appear in other Copilot experiences as well. This points to a future in which Copilot will automatically select the most suitable AI model for each task.
But the partnership between Microsoft and Anthropic is now taking things a step further.
From Chat Assistant to a Real Digital Colleague
In early 2026, Anthropic introduced a new concept: Claude Cowork.
Claude Cowork isn't a traditional chatbot, but rather what's known as an "agentic AI assistant." Instead of simply answering questions, the agent can perform entire tasks based on a goal you specify. (Get Started with Cowork | Claude Help Center)
Here's how it works in practice:
- You grant the AI access to a folder or set of documents
- You describe the desired result
- The AI agent creates a plan on its own
- He then carries out the various steps on his own
For example, the agent can:
- analyze a folder containing hundreds of documents
- summarize information
- write a report
- restructure files or generate new documents.
This means the user doesn't have to control each step individually. You describe the end result, and the AI agent works toward it on its own.
That’s a fundamental shift: AI is evolving from a reactive assistant to an active digital colleague.
Microsoft is currently testing Copilot Cowork
Microsoft is currently experimenting with integrating this concept into Copilot.
During recent announcements, Copilot Cowork was introduced: a new feature based on Claude Cowork technology that will run within the Copilot platform.
The idea is simple but powerful.
While Copilot currently helps primarily within individual applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams), Copilot Cowork will be able to perform tasks across different applications and documents.
Consider, for example, assignments such as:
- “Analyze all the documents in this project folder and prepare a management report.”
- “Review the recent Teams conversations, emails, and documents related to this project and prepare a summary.”
- “Organize this research data and create a presentation highlighting the key insights.”
This makes the agent less of a tool and more of a digital colleague who can handle tasks while you're doing something else.
According to initial reports, Copilot Cowork will be available through Microsoft's early-access program for Copilot and enterprise users.
