Two years ago, Microsoft heralded artificial intelligence as a “generational shift” in technology. Today, it’s trimming back its Copilot apps, acknowledging that complexity was its downfall.

The tech giant is merging its consumer and business Copilot apps into one, while discontinuing features like Group Chats, AI-generated podcasts, Deep Research, and the quirky animated Mico character. By August 18, 2026, users will see these changes, with some features slated to return temporarily during the transition.

Microsoft’s decision is part of a broader trend in the AI app space where companies are consolidating their offerings. ChatGPT has integrated Cowork into its chat function; OpenAI has merged Operator into ChatGPT; and Google has added specialized capabilities like deep research and web browsing to Gemini.

For paying professional users, Researcher will replace Deep Research, at least for now. This move is seen as a step towards making Copilot a “simpler, more cohesive experience,” but also an admission that the app needed to do better in its customers’ lives.