Microsoft Copilot and Bing Chat Enterprise: September 2023 Update

Microsoft recently announced new artificial intelligence (AI) tools, Bing Chat Enterprise and Microsoft Copilot, would begin rolling out on September 26, 2023. They also announced an update to Windows 11, which introduces a version of Microsoft Copilot into the operating system.  

Students, staff, and faculty accessing Microsoft 365 services using their MacID will not have access to Bing Chat Enterprise or Microsoft Copilot at this time. It is important to note that this does not prevent private Microsoft users from using these services with their personal Microsoft accounts. 

Prior to any potential implementation of these new AI tools within the Microsoft ecosystem at McMaster, their potential impact on information security, data privacy, and risk management will be evaluated carefully. 

As a result, the latest Windows 11 update, which introduces a version of Microsoft Copilot integrated into the operating system, will not be deployed to employee devices managed by University Technology Services (UTS) at this time. However, some community members may circumvent UTS’s policies and access the new Windows 11 update on their work devices where they have administrative control. Additionally, it is important to note that this does not prevent private users from installing the new Windows 11 update on their personal devices.  

Moving forward, a group of campus partners will be convened to determine the most suitable response to the introduction of these new AI technologies. More information will be shared with the community shortly.   

In the meantime, for more guidance on using Generative AI, please refer to the following McMaster guidelines:  

• Guidelines for using Generative AI in Teaching in Learning? 

• Guidelines for citing Generative AI?