- Microsoft Copilot it's compatible with Mac through a web version and a specific app.
- Allows you to generate texts, images and assistance with IA integrated Microsoft 365.
- Configure privacy settings, AI models, and customize shortcuts for an optimal experience.
La Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing the way we interact with devices, and Microsoft Copilot is one of the main protagonists in this progress. If you have a Mac and are wondering how to get the most out of this tool, here you will find the most complete, up-to-date, and detailed guide to take advantage of both the web version and the app available on the App Store. Discover all its features, access methods, and Tricks to squeeze it like a true expert.
Many Mac users are unaware of the full potential of Copilot and how to integrate it into their daily workflow. In this article, we explain not only how to install and access it, but also all the details about its operation, compatibility, advantages, limitations, and the best alternatives. We'll also show you how to use it in its web version, from the iOS/iPadOS app on Mac, and how to maintain control over your privacy.
What is Microsoft Copilot and why is it relevant on macOS?
Microsoft Copilot is much more than just a chatbot. It is an artificial intelligence solution developed by Microsoft in collaboration with OpenAI which combines the power of advanced models such as GPT-4 and DALL·E 3. This tool can create texts, summarize documents, generate images from descriptions, help you in the programming, compose emails, create custom routines, and more. Integration with Microsoft 365 (Become, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) further expands its possibilities, making it a versatile and multipurpose virtual assistant.
Copilot's great appeal lies in the fact that it also synchronizes and retrieves information in real time from the web, offering up-to-date results with citations and sources, unlike other AIs that are more limited in recent data. It also incorporates high-quality AI image generation, instantly bringing ideas, presentations, and visual proposals to life.
Main ways to access Copilot from a Mac
There are currently two main ways to use Copilot on a Mac: the web app and the app available on the App Store (designed for Mac OS X). iPad, but operational on Macs with Apple Silicon). Each one has its advantages and limitations, so let's take a closer look at them so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
Copilot from the web app in Safari, Chrome, or Edge
The easiest and fastest way to try Copilot on Mac is through its web version. You can access from browsers like Safari, Chrome or Microsoft Edge, although Safari offers the possibility of "install" Copilot as a standalone web app.
- Open Safari and go to copilot.microsoft.com.
- Sign in with your Microsoft account, although you can try it without an account with limited access.
- In the top menu, go to File > Add to Dock. This is how you create a shortcut in the Dock and Launchpad.
- When you tap the icon, Copilot will open as a separate window, without disturbing your open tabs.
En Google Chrome: Expand the menu (three dots) > Additional tools > Create shortcut > Check “Open as window”.
In Microsoft Edge: display the menu > Applications > Install this site as an application.
Advantages of the web: You'll always have access to the most up-to-date version of Copilot and can use both text and image generation, as well as access third-party tools (such as creating music or images from compatible plugins).
Copilot via the official iPad app (from the Mac App Store)
Microsoft launched a Copilot app designed for iPhone and iPad, which also works on Macs with Apple Silicon chip (M series). While this option may be temporarily limited in some regions or devices due to changes in the App Store, it remains a very attractive option.
- Open the Mac App Store and search for “Microsoft Copilot«.
- Download the iPad app and run it on your Mac.
- When you start it, you can access it as a guest, but the functionality will be less.
- To unlock its true potential, tap the accounts button (top left corner) and sign in with your Microsoft account (Outlook, Hotmail, etc.).
- You can switch between the GPT-3.5 and GPT-4 models, and also choose the conversation tone between Creative, Balanced, or Precise.
Note: The app also offers dark theme (automatically adapted to macOS mode), camera support (on supported models), and advanced privacy settings.
Step-by-step guide to getting started with Copilot on Mac
Let's walk through the entire process to get the most out of both the web version and the app. You won't miss a thing.
Installation and first access
- For the web: Sign in to , sign in with your Microsoft account, and if you use Safari, add Copilot to the Dock for added convenience.
- For the app: Download from the Mac App Store, open the Copilot app, and follow the wizard to set up access.
Configuration and customization
Once inside, configure your profile and language, choose the AI model (by default GPT-3.5, but you can activate GPT-4 for more creative responses –warning: it slows down the response speed a little–) and select the conversational tone:
- Creative: Freer responses, ideal for ideas, brainstorming, art, or creative writing.
- Balanced: Blends creativity and precision. Perfect for most everyday tasks.
- Precise: For summaries, tailored answers, or specific data.
In both cases, logging in offers additional benefits: more interactions per session, chat saving, cross-device syncing, and expanded customization options.
Keyboard shortcuts and accessibility
For advanced users, the Copilot app for macOS supports custom shortcuts. By default, you can open Copilot at any time with Option + Spacebar. You can also change this shortcut or remove it completely from the app ('Account > Keyboard Shortcut').
This makes it easy to quickly launch the wizard when you need it, without having to search for the icon or open the app manually.
Clear interface adapted to macOS
Copilot integrates with the visual style of the Mac operating system. By default, the app's mode matches the appearance of your Mac (light or dark), although you can manually change it from the "Appearance" preferences within your account. This helps you work comfortably without clashing with other apps.
Privacy and control over your data
Microsoft lets you manage exactly how your conversations are used to train AI models. From within the app, go to your user profile and select Privacy > Text/Speech Model Training to decide whether you want to contribute to AI development or prefer to keep your data separate from this process. Additionally, Copilot complies with local data protection laws and the Microsoft Privacy Statement. If you opt out, your conversations will be excluded from future model training within 30 days.
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