Microsoft has sparked nostalgia for its infamous assistant, Clippy, by posting a hand-drawn image of the paperclip on social media. The drawing was created using Microsoft Paint and generated with the Image Creator option. This move comes as the company introduces its latest AI-powered assistant, Copilot.
Copilot shares similarities with Clippy, offering intrusive suggestions to users. Unlike previous assistants like Cortana, it is being promoted as a paid feature in Microsoft 365 Personal and Family plans. However, opinions on Copilot are divided, with some finding it helpful while others criticize its invasive nature.
Microsoft’s decision to reintroduce AI-powered assistants has been met with skepticism, with the company frequently rebranding its efforts. The outpouring of affection for Clippy might lead Microsoft to reconsider its approach to AI development. As users weigh the benefits and drawbacks of Copilot, they should be cautious about what they wish for, especially considering the lessons learned from previous assistants like Clippy.
Source: https://www.theregister.com/2025/02/05/microsoft_clippy_post