GPT-5.6 is now the preferred model in Microsoft 365 Copilot

Today, OpenAI announced the release of GPT-5.6, which is becoming the new preferred model in Microsoft 365 Copilot across Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Chat, and Cowork. According to OpenAI, the latest flagship model series delivers more useful work from every token, offering stronger performance per dollar and on-demand capability for complex tasks. For Microsoft 365 customers, the update integrates the new AI assistance into everyday productivity tools to help users create, analyze, and collaborate. In Word, GPT-5.6 assists with drafting, editing, and refining documents with fewer rounds of prompting. In Excel, it supports deeper analysis while utilizing tokens more efficiently. In PowerPoint, it helps turn early ideas into polished presentations with less manual guidance, while in Cowork, it supports complex, cross-functional work outputs. Nitin Agrawal, President of Copilot and Agents Core at Microsoft, stated that the integration enables customers to work even more effectively in their daily tools. Nikunj Handa, Head of API Product at OpenAI, noted that bringing GPT-5.6 to Microsoft 365 Copilot through the OpenAI API helps organizations gain more value from AI in tools they already use. Microsoft will access OpenAI models directly through the API to deliver GPT-5.6 to Microsoft 365 customers, building on the ongoing partnership between the two organizations to bring advanced AI benefits to individuals and organizations worldwide.