Despite Claims of Reducing OpenAI Dependency... Microsoft Adopts GPT-5.6 as Preferred Model for 365 Copilot

Microsoft has adopted OpenAI's latest model, GPT-5.6, as the preferred model for its 365 Copilot suite, despite recent reports of expanding its own MAI model for AI operations. While surface-level appearances suggest conflicting strategies, industry analysts interpret this as a shift toward multi-model routing, where different AI models are used based on task complexity. OpenAI's GPT-5.6 is now officially supported for core 365 Copilot functions, while MAI handles routine requests to reduce costs. This aligns with broader industry trends toward cost optimization, where simpler tasks use cheaper models while complex workloads leverage advanced capabilities.