In August 2025, OpenAI launched GPT-5, its most advanced AI model yet. Almost instantly, Microsoft plugged it into Copilot, the built-in AI assistant across Microsoft 365.

The result? A Copilot that’s not just faster, but smarter. It can draft emails, explain complex documents, or even help write code, switching between quick answers and deeper reasoning depending on what you ask.

How GPT-5 Fits Into Microsoft Copilot

Microsoft calls the update “Smart Mode.” It’s basically like having two brains in one assistant:

• Fast mode: Quick, fluent answers for simple questions.

• Deep mode: Slower, more thoughtful responses for trickier tasks.

And this isn’t just for Word and Outlook. GPT-5 now powers:

• Microsoft 365 Copilot: Smarter summaries, clearer reports, better writing support.

• Azure AI Foundry: Tools for businesses to build their own AI-powered apps.

• Copilot Studio: A way for teams to create custom agents tailored to their workflow.

Why This Matters

Here’s where GPT-5 makes a real difference:

1. Smarter support in context – No more generic answers. Copilot now understands your emails, projects or documents and responds accordingly.

2. The right balance of speed and depth – Sometimes you just need a quick draft. Other times you need detailed insights. GPT-5 handles both.

3. Better decision-making – From analysing a proposal to pulling lessons from a project, Copilot gives you clear, reasoned output.

4. Custom tools without the headache – With Studio and API access, teams can shape Copilot into something that fits their business perfectly.

What People Are Saying So Far

Early reviews are mostly positive. Many users love how much more instructible GPT-5 feels. You ask, it does. Others have noticed big improvements in reasoning and clarity, especially compared to previous versions.

That said, a few developers have pointed out some quirks. GPT-5 can still be a little wordy at times, and like all AI, it’s not immune to the odd mistake. But overall, the balance of speed, reliability and depth makes it a big step forward.

Why You Should Care About GPT 5 for your Business

Think about your day-to-day. How much time do you spend on admin, emails, or trying to piece together insights from reports? With GPT-5 in Copilot, a lot of that heavy lifting is handled for you.

For businesses, this isn’t just about saving time, it’s about working smarter, making sharper decisions, and freeing people up to focus on what actually moves things forward.

Final Thoughts from Three Cherries

GPT-5 in Copilot feels like a real turning point. The best part? It’s already here, ready to make work feel a little less like… work. If you need any help or advice with getting Copilot set up in your business, get in touch! At Three Cherries, we take the gamble out of business technology.