Microsoft Copilot vs. Google Gemini

Hello EdTech Türkiye readers!

In today’s post, we’re going to talk about two AI tools you’re most likely to encounter in the workplace: Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini. These technologies are integrated into widely used platforms like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, offering excellent opportunities to speed up your daily tasks and boost your productivity.

However, many people still don’t fully understand the capabilities and limitations of these tools. For instance, a Forrester report shows that most managers wrongly believe AI can verify information, produce perfectly consistent outputs, and solve complex math problems without error. That’s why it’s critical to know when Copilot and Gemini are most helpful and to always consider your company’s data policies.

Let’s take a closer look at these two important tools and explore how you can use them in your professional life.

What Is Microsoft Copilot?

Microsoft Copilot is an AI assistant integrated into the core applications of Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams). You can also find Copilot in Bing search, the Edge browser, and Windows (via the side panel).

Here are some examples of what you can do with Copilot:

• Excel: Create data visualizations, spot insights, bold relevant data, or add new columns using functions.
• Outlook: Draft emails, edit existing text, and even summarize long email threads.
• Teams: Transcribe and summarize meetings, and generate action plans based on meeting notes.

What Is Google Gemini?

Google Gemini is an AI tool developed by Google and integrated into its products and services (Google Workspace, Cloud, Search, and mobile apps). Like Microsoft Copilot, it can help you increase productivity in apps such as Gmail, Google Sheets, and Google Slides.

Here are some examples of how you can use Gemini at work:

• Docs: Quickly generate a presentation outline, blog post, or project proposal with a single command.
• Sheets: Create slides or charts from a simple prompt, analyze data, and summarize findings.
• Research: Review and analyze information to identify key points and discover new opportunities.

Both tools have similar features but operate on different platforms. Despite their strong security claims, always verify your organization’s data policies before sharing any sensitive information.

How to Improve Your Copilot and Gemini Skills

To learn how to effectively use these tools in your professional life, check out the various courses and Specialization programs on Coursera:

• General Features of Microsoft Copilot or Google Gemini

  • Microsoft’s [Introduction to Microsoft Copilot]
  • Google Cloud’s [Introduction to Gemini for Google Workspace]

• Specializing in Gemini

  • Google Cloud’s [Gemini for Google Workspace Specialization]
    In this program, you’ll learn hands-on applications like drafting emails in Gmail, creating visuals in Google Slides, and planning with Google Sheets.

• Deepening Your Knowledge of Copilot

  • Microsoft’s [Microsoft Copilot: Your Everyday AI Companion Specialization]
    This Specialization strengthens your practical skills in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams with real-world scenarios. Microsoft also offers additional role-specific Specializations (e.g., Software Development, Data Science, Sales, and Marketing) for Copilot.

By familiarizing yourself with these tools, you can work faster and more efficiently, opening up new opportunities for your business and career. Remember, as with any technology, using AI responsibly and conscientiously is essential!

We wish you a lot of learning and exploration!

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