Over the weekend, Microsoft gradually rolled out new Copilot applications for both the iPhone and Android operating systems.
Copilot introduces a complimentary version of OpenAI’s GPT-4, typically only accessible through a premium ChatGPT subscription, by transforming the Bing chat interface into a standalone application.
Users can request various advanced functionalities from the AI tool, such as music creation, storytelling, and integration with the DALL-E 3 image generator.
Unlike traditional image generation models where users input prompts and hope for the best, DALL-E 3, introduced by OpenAI last year, allows users to engage in a dialogue with Copilot to refine their concepts.
I decided to experiment with it, and here’s my experience.
Utilizing the Copilot App for Image Creation
I opted to create a unique design—a cat in a box—to put it to the test. I’ve explored AI image generation using this approach previously, as it allows for iterative improvements. Here’s a guide on using Copilot to generate images.
1. Download the Copilot app and log in.
The initial step is to download the app from the App Store or Play Store. Logging in with your Microsoft account is necessary to access the chatbot’s image creation capabilities. While Copilot can be used without logging in, features like GPT-4 and DALL-E support require authentication.
2. Sign in for full functionality.
To unlock all features, tap the circular profile icon in the top left corner of the screen and sign in to your Microsoft account through the options menu.
3. Enable GPT-4 for enhanced capabilities.
Although image generation is possible without enabling GPT-4, activating this feature, which is now freely available, enhances creativity, improves output quality, and aids in better understanding prompts. Simply toggle the GPT-4 switch.
4. Initiate the cat creation process.
To start generating an image, input your desired concept into the text box. If a microphone icon is present, you can also verbally communicate your request.
I asked Copilot, also known as Bing Chat, to draw an illustration of a playful rabbit with yarn in a tin can.
5. Select the preferred image from the options provided.
Four variations of the cat image will be generated, each offering a slightly different interpretation. Click on each image to view it individually, and you can zoom in for a closer look.
6. Transform the image into a brand identity.
DALL-E 3, the image engine powering Copilot, excels at interpreting text onto images. I tasked Copilot with using the cat image as a logo for a business named “Cat in the Box.” While it took some time to process my request, it eventually produced an elliptical image.
7. Review the brand designs proposed by Copilot.
Copilot presented four design options, with one standing out as particularly appealing despite all featuring readable “Cat in the Box” text. After downloading the image by tapping on it, access the additional options by selecting the three lines icon next to the share button.
8. Save the images from Copilot.
Saving the image is straightforward with a simple tap on the three dots, but transferring it to your photo library or files requires a few additional steps. Tapping the lines will reveal the Download menu.
Upon clicking the download button, the image will open in a separate view. On iOS, long-press the image and select “Save to Photos,” while on an Android device, long-press and choose “Download image.”
9. Explore further modifications.
With the initial concept of a cat established, I proceeded to envision a realistic version sent to the moon by AI. This process is as simple as requesting the AI to execute the task, as it can refine suggestions based on feedback and respond to natural language prompts.
10. Unleash your creativity.
Deciding to celebrate the space-traveling cat, I tested DALL-E’s language generation capabilities by asking Copilot to design an AstroCat Bix cereal box featuring our adventurous feline. The outcome was impressive.
11. Generating promotional materials.
As a final test of its text generation abilities, I tasked Copilot with creating an AstroCat Bix banner and newspaper advertisement. While the packaging and cat illustrations were not entirely consistent, both outputs were commendable for a quick and straightforward process.
When interacting with the AI, provide detailed descriptions and ensure clarity in your prompts, enclosing specific terms in double quotation marks if needed.
Now equipped with the power of advanced AI on your mobile device, courtesy of Microsoft’s Copilot AI software, the possibilities for creative exploration are endless on both iOS and Android platforms.
