The Microsoft Store now offers many free AI apps that bring chatbots, image generators, and writing assistants directly to Windows. This selection highlights the best free options for everyday users, from built-in assistants to local AI tools.
Microsoft Copilot is the easiest way to start with AI on Windows. It is pre-installed on Windows 11 and also available as a free app in the Microsoft Store. Copilot uses OpenAI's GPT models and can answer questions, summarize text, generate images, and even change Windows settings.
In 2023, Microsoft added Copilot to Windows 11 as a sidebar, replacing the older Cortana assistant. Since then, the app has received regular updates with newer models and extra features. The free version includes access to GPT-4o for chat and image generation through Microsoft Designer.
For many users, Copilot is enough. You do not need to install anything extra, and the integration with Windows makes it convenient for quick tasks like writing emails, summarizing documents, or finding settings.
OpenAI released an official ChatGPT app for Windows in October 2024. The app is free to download from the Microsoft Store and works with a free OpenAI account. Free users get access to GPT-4o mini with a limited number of messages, while Plus subscribers can use GPT-4o and GPT-4 Turbo.
The ChatGPT Windows app supports voice input, file uploads, and screenshots. You can paste an image, ask questions about a PDF, or dictate a message. The app is especially useful for research, writing, and coding help.
One advantage of ChatGPT over Copilot is the ability to continue conversations across devices. Your chat history syncs with the web version and mobile apps, so you can start on your PC and finish on your phone.
Several free apps in the Microsoft Store let you create images with AI. Microsoft Designer is a free app that uses DALL-E models to generate images from text prompts. It is available as a standalone app and also integrated into Copilot.
Bing Image Creator is another popular option, powered by DALL-E 3. You can access it through the Edge browser or the Bing app. Free users get a limited number of boosts each week, but the tool remains completely free to use.
These image generators are great for social media posts, presentations, and personal projects. Just type a description, and the app creates several variations in seconds.
Not all AI apps in the Store require the cloud. Some apps run small language models directly on your PC. LM Studio and Ollama are popular free tools that let you download and run open-source models like Llama 3 and Mistral locally. These apps work offline and do not send your data to any server.
Running AI locally has clear advantages: no internet connection needed, no usage limits, and full privacy. However, local models require a powerful PC with a good GPU and at least 8 GB of RAM. For simple everyday tasks, a cloud-based app like Copilot is more convenient and faster.
Start with Microsoft Copilot if you want a simple, integrated experience with no setup. Choose ChatGPT if you prefer OpenAI's ecosystem and need advanced reasoning or cross-device sync. Pick a local app like LM Studio if privacy is your main concern and you have a capable PC.
Before installing any AI app, check the model version, privacy policy, and hardware requirements. Good apps are updated regularly with newer models and security fixes. Read user reviews in the Microsoft Store to see how the app performs on real hardware.
What is Microsoft Copilot?
Microsoft Copilot is a free AI assistant built into Windows 11 that uses OpenAI's GPT models to answer questions, generate text, and create images.
Is ChatGPT free on Windows?
Yes, OpenAI offers a free version of the ChatGPT Windows app in the Microsoft Store, with limited access to GPT-4o mini and a message cap.
What is the difference between Copilot and ChatGPT?
Copilot is integrated into Windows and uses Microsoft's ecosystem, while ChatGPT is OpenAI's standalone app with its own subscription tiers and cross-device sync.
How do I choose a free AI app in the Microsoft Store?
Check the model version, privacy policy, and hardware requirements, and start with a cloud-based app like Copilot if you want the easiest experience.
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