Getting started with Microsoft Copilot
Last checked 2026-10-15
Based on Microsoft help docs, checked 2026-10-15. Written in our own words; follow the official articles for the latest details.
- Open Copilot on the web, or install the Microsoft Copilot app for Windows, macOS, iOS/iPadOS or Android.
- Sign in with a personal Microsoft account (on web, mobile and macOS an Apple ID or Google Account also works; Windows needs a Microsoft account), or a work/school account if your organisation provides one.
- Start a new chat and ask your question.
- Be clear and specific, then follow up: ask it to narrow the time period, change the format or go deeper.
- Review privacy settings (see our data-safety guide).
Official help articles
- support.microsoft.com/en-US/microsoft-copilot/getting-started-with-microsoft-copilot
- support.microsoft.com/en-us/privacy/microsoft-copilot/privacy-controls
Free or paid?
Free: not verified, so check the official site. Paid: the lowest price we could verify on the official pricing page is $23.5/month (other plans may exist).
Privacy setting to check
Older Copilot app: Profile → Privacy (web) / Settings → Privacy (Windows/macOS) / Account → Privacy (mobile) → turn off “Training on conversation activity” and “Training on voice conversations”. New Copilot app (from 18 Aug 2026): Microsoft's privacy-controls page lists Memory, shared experiences, chat history, web search and ad settings under Settings → Personalization, but doesn't describe a model-training toggle; check that page for updates.