OpenAI is working on a significant upgrade to ChatGPT that could reduce the users’ reliance on Microsoft Office. According to a report by The Information, new features are in development that would allow ChatGPT users to create and edit spreadsheets and presentations, functions typically handled by Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint. These tools are currently being tested by at least one early user.
The report cited a user who has accessed the new features as saying that new buttons will be added under the ChatGPT search bar, guiding them through creating a spreadsheet or a presentation. Once done, they can download the files and open them in Microsoft Office or any app that supports the same formats.
OpenAI can offer this compatibility because Microsoft’s file formats for Excel (.xlsx) and PowerPoint (.pptx) are open source, so OpenAI doesn’t need any permission to build tools that use them.
Notably, these tools are part of OpenAI’s broader plan to turn ChatGPT into more than just a chat assistant. The company is also building AI “agents” that can handle complex, multi-step tasks like pulling together data for reports, booking meetings, or even browsing the internet on your behalf. These agents could eventually run tasks autonomously, without users needing to guide them every step.
If OpenAI pulls this off, ChatGPT could become an alternative to Microsoft Office and Google Workspace, potentially shaking up the business software market.
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This news comes at an interesting time in the Microsoft-OpenAI partnership. Microsoft has invested billions in OpenAI and uses its technology to power Copilot features in Word, Excel, and other Office 365 apps. In turn, ChatGPT runs primarily on Microsoft’s cloud infrastructure.
But despite the tight collaboration, the lines between the two companies are starting to blur. With OpenAI now developing tools that compete with Microsoft Office, reports suggest that their relationship may be shifting, from partners to potential competitors.
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Himani Jha
Himani Jha is a tech news writer at Digit. Passionate about smartphones and consumer technology, she has contributed to leading publications such as Times Network, Gadgets 360, and Hindustan Times Tech for the past five years.
When not immersed in gadgets, she enjoys exploring the vibrant culinary scene, discovering new cafes and restaurants, and indulging in her love for fine literature and timeless music. View Full Profile