At its virtual Inspire conference on Tuesday, Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) revealed it would charge at least over 50% more for access to its new artificial intelligence features in its office software.
The move provides an insight into the return the tech giant hopes to create from the technology. Microsoft shares have jumped more than 5% at the time of writing on Tuesday, currently trading close to the $364 mark.
During the conference, Microsoft announced the launch of a new, secure version of its Bing search engine, specifically designed and immediately available for businesses. This move aims to address data-protection concerns and increase interest in AI while also positioning Microsoft as a stronger competitor to Google (NASDAQ:GOOGL).
Microsoft will charge customers $30 per month, per user, for its AI copilot in Microsoft 365. Reuters reported that the voluntary upgrade is on top of the monthly plans ranging from $12.50 per user to $57, resulting in a potential tripling of cost for Microsoft customers wishing to use the copilot.
"Since launching the new Bing in February, we’ve heard from many corporate customers who are excited to empower their organizations with powerful new AI tools but are concerned that their companies’ data will not be protected," Microsoft said in a press release. "That’s why today we’re announcing Bing Chat Enterprise, which gives organizations AI-powered chat for work with commercial data protection."
"We’re also pleased to announce pricing for Microsoft 365 Copilot. It will be available for $30 per user per month for Microsoft 365 E3, E5, Business Standard and Business Premium customers when generally available."