Microsoft's rapidly evolving AI ecosystem has introduced a wave of new product names, rebrands, and terminology that can challenge even seasoned IT professionals. From Azure AD becoming Entra ID to the multiple iterations of Bing Chat now called Microsoft Copilot, keeping track of Microsoft's naming conventions requires its own guide.

The Challenge of Microsoft's Evolving AI Branding

Microsoft has historically changed product names (remember when Office became Microsoft 365?), but the pace of AI-related rebranding has accelerated dramatically. Loryan Strant, a Microsoft MVP, created the "Let Me Correct That For You" resource that documents these changes - a testament to how confusing the landscape has become.

Key challenges include:
- Multiple naming changes for the same product (Bing Chat → Bing Chat Enterprise → Microsoft Copilot)
- Similar names for different products (Microsoft Copilot vs. GitHub Copilot)
- Enterprise vs. consumer naming differences
- Features that span multiple products

Microsoft AI Product Naming Decoder

Core AI Products and Their Evolution

  1. Bing Chat → Microsoft Copilot
    - Originally launched as Bing Chat powered by ChatGPT
    - Rebranded to Microsoft Copilot in late 2023
    - Enterprise version was briefly called Bing Chat Enterprise

  2. Azure Active Directory → Microsoft Entra ID
    - Part of Microsoft's broader Entra product family
    - Change announced mid-2023, completed by 2024

  3. Microsoft 365 Copilot
    - The AI assistant built into Office apps
    - Different from the standalone Copilot (formerly Bing Chat)

The Copilot Confusion

Microsoft currently has several Copilot-branded products:
- Microsoft Copilot: The free AI assistant (formerly Bing Chat)
- Microsoft 365 Copilot: AI features in Office apps ($30/user/month)
- GitHub Copilot: Developer-focused AI coding assistant
- Security Copilot: AI for cybersecurity teams

Why Microsoft's Naming Strategy Matters

For IT professionals and businesses, understanding these names is critical because:
1. Licensing implications: Different Copilots have different requirements
2. Security considerations: Enterprise vs. consumer versions have different compliance features
3. Training needs: Employees need clear guidance on which tools to use
4. Budget planning: Some features require additional subscriptions

Tips for Navigating Microsoft's AI Terminology

  1. Follow official Microsoft blogs for announcement posts
  2. Bookmark the Microsoft Learn documentation which is regularly updated
  3. Use the "Let Me Correct That For You" community resource
  4. Check product URLs - Microsoft often maintains redirects from old names
  5. Consult your Microsoft account team for enterprise-specific guidance

The Future of Microsoft AI Branding

Microsoft shows no signs of slowing its AI innovation, which means more product names and features are likely coming. Industry observers predict:
- More consolidation of AI features under the Copilot brand
- Potential renaming of Windows features to include "Copilot"
- Possible new AI product categories as technology advances

For now, the best strategy is to expect change, verify information through official channels, and maintain flexibility in how you refer to Microsoft's AI tools.