Concept dictionary
Copilot
A copilot is an AI assistant built into a tool or workflow that proposes work — text, code, analysis, a next step — for a person to accept, change, or reject. The name describes an intended division of labor rather than a guarantee: what a particular product can do on its own depends on the permissions and automation it has actually been given.
- Review state
- Reviewed in POC
- Freshness
- Current
- Version
- 4
Also called
- Copilot
- AI Copilot
Remember it this wayThe copilot assists; the human still owns the flight.
In plain language
A copilot may suggest text, code, analysis, or next steps inside the place where work already happens. The human is expected to steer, check, and decide what to use.
Why it matters
The label signals an intended support relationship, but actual permissions and automation must still be inspected. A product called a copilot may have capabilities beyond simple suggestions.
Example
A spreadsheet copilot proposes a formula and explains it, while the analyst decides whether to insert and use it.
Common misconception
Calling software a copilot does not guarantee meaningful human control. Workflow design must preserve time, information, and authority for review.
Related terms
Sources
- Microsoft Learn, Copilot glossaryfirst-party terminology for copilot-style AI assistance.
- Microsoft Learn, Overview of Microsoft 365 Copilotfirst-party example of an assistant embedded in workplace applications.
Learn more
- Compare an assistive copilot with a more action-oriented [[ai-agent|AI Agent]].