Copilot Advancements, Changes to Skype, and AI in Healthcare

In this update, we cover some of the most significant developments, including the retirement of Skype, the new Copilot app for Windows, and Microsoft’s AI-powered healthcare assistant, Dragon Copilot.

Key Takeaways:

  • Skype is officially shutting down in May 2025, with Microsoft Teams becoming its primary replacement.
  • Copilot will become a standalone Windows app, making AI-powered assistance more accessible across devices.
  • Dragon Copilot is launching as an AI assistant for healthcare professionals, improving documentation and administrative workflows.

 

Skype is Shutting Down by May 2025

End of an Era for Skype

After more than two decades, Microsoft is retiring Skype in May 2025. Skype, once a pioneer in internet-based communication, will be replaced by Microsoft Teams as the company shifts focus to its more modern communication platform.

Why is Microsoft Retiring Skype?

The decision to shut down Skype comes as Microsoft continues to integrate its features into Teams, which has gained significant traction in both corporate and personal communication. Microsoft states that Teams provides a more modern, AI-powered experience that aligns with its current strategy.

What Will Happen to Existing Skype Users?

  • Users can continue using Skype until May 2025.
  • Microsoft is offering an easy transition to Teams, allowing users to sign in with the same credentials, ensuring that all chat histories and contacts are seamlessly transferred.
  • If users don’t wish to transfer to Teams they will need to export chat histories and contacts before the shutdown.

 

Microsoft Copilot App Comes to Windows

A Dedicated App for Copilot

Microsoft is making Copilot a standalone app on Windows, bringing its AI-powered assistant closer to users. This move is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to embed AI more deeply into its ecosystem.

What’s New with Copilot?

  • Copilot will no longer be just a sidebar or an add-on. Instead, it will function as a full-fledged Windows app.
  • Users can launch Copilot directly from their Start menu, making it more convenient.
  • The app will have deeper integration with Windows, allowing users to interact with files, settings, and apps more naturally.

Who Can Access Copilot and When?

  • Currently available to select Windows Insider Program members, allowing early access and testing.
  • Rolling out gradually to all Windows 11 users, with full availability expected in the coming months.
  • Enterprise and business users may receive additional AI-powered features as part of Microsoft’s premium Copilot offerings.

How Will This Change User Experience?

  • More accessibility: Instead of being embedded in specific apps, Copilot can now be accessed anywhere.
  • Improved functionality: Microsoft is rolling out new AI-driven capabilities, such as summarization, automation, and intelligent task execution.
  • Better device integration: The standalone app will sync with other Windows services for a seamless experience.

Find out about our AI and Copilot Solutions here.

 

Microsoft’s Dragon Copilot: AI-Powered Healthcare Assistant

Introducing Dragon Copilot

Microsoft is bringing AI-powered assistance to healthcare professionals with Dragon Copilot. This AI-driven tool is designed to help doctors and nurses with documentation, reducing administrative burdens.

How Does Dragon Copilot Help Healthcare Professionals?

  • Automated transcription: It converts doctor-patient conversations into structured notes, saving time.
  • Real-time summarization: It extracts key details from conversations to provide instant summaries.
  • Seamless integration: Works with major electronic health record (EHR) systems, making it easy to implement.

Why is This Important for Healthcare?

  • Reduces administrative work: Doctors spend less time on paperwork and more time with patients.
  • Enhances accuracy: AI-driven documentation minimizes errors.
  • Speeds up workflows: Faster note-taking and summarization improve efficiency in busy hospital environments.

Find out more about Microsoft Copilot Dragon here.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. What should Skype users do before it shuts down?

Skype users should export their chat histories and contacts before May 2025. Microsoft suggests transitioning to Teams, which offers similar communication features.

  1. Will the Copilot app be available for all Windows users?

Copilot is currently available to select Windows Insider Program members and will gradually roll out to all Windows 11 users over the coming months.

  1. How does Dragon Copilot compare to other AI-powered healthcare tools?

Dragon Copilot stands out due to its deep integration with medical record systems, real-time transcription, and AI-powered conversation summarization.