A step-by-step visual guide to getting Microsoft's powerful AI assistant up and running on your iPad — from finding the app to your very first conversation.
Before you can harness the power of Microsoft Copilot, you need to locate and download it from the App Store. This chapter walks you through finding the right app quickly and confidently.
Step 1
Open the App Store
Step 2
Search for Microsoft Copilot
Step 3
Identify the correct app
Step 1
Open the App Store
What to look for
The App Store icon is a blue icon with a white 'A' made of lines, typically found on your iPad's home screen or dock. It comes pre-installed on every Apple device.
Located on the home screen or dock
Blue background, white stylised letter 'A'
Tap once to open
Step 2
Search for Microsoft Copilot
01
Tap the Search Tab
Find the Search tab at the bottom right of the App Store and tap it to open the search screen.
02
Type the App Name
In the search bar at the top, type "Microsoft Copilot" exactly as shown.
03
Press Search
Tap the blue Search key on your keyboard to display results instantly.
Step 3
Identify the Correct App
What to check before downloading
Several apps may appear in your search results. Make sure you select the official Microsoft Copilot app to ensure security and full functionality.
Official Name
"Microsoft Copilot" — published by Microsoft Corporation
Listed as Free
The app is free to download with no upfront cost
High Rating
Look for a rating of 4.7 stars or above
Chapter 2
Downloading and Installing
With the correct app identified, it's time to download and install Microsoft Copilot onto your iPad. This chapter covers the download process, authentication, and confirming a successful installation.
Step 4
Download the app
Step 5
Monitor installation progress
Step 4
Download the App
Tap "Get" to Begin
Tap the Get button next to the Microsoft Copilot app listing. You may be asked to verify your identity before the download begins.
Apple ID password — enter manually if prompted
Face ID — glance at your iPad camera
Touch ID — press your finger to the home button
Authentication protects your Apple account from unauthorised purchases, even for free apps.
Step 5
Installation in Progress
1
Download Begins
A circular progress ring appears on the app icon, showing download progress in real time.
2
App Installs
Once downloaded, the app installs automatically — no extra steps required.
3
Ready to Open
The Get button changes to Open, confirming the installation is complete.
Chapter 3
Setting Up and Using Copilot
Now that the app is installed, it's time to set it up and start exploring. This chapter guides you through signing in, granting permissions, and launching your very first AI conversation.
Step 6
Open Microsoft Copilot
Step 7
Sign in to your account
Step 8
Grant permissions
Step 9
Start your first conversation
Step 6
Open Microsoft Copilot
Two ways to launch Copilot
You can open Microsoft Copilot immediately after installation using either of the following methods:
From the App Store
Tap the Open button that appears where the "Get" button previously was.
From the Home Screen
Find the newly installed Copilot icon on your home screen and tap it to launch.
The Copilot icon may appear on the last page of your home screen or in your App Library if your home screen is full.
Step 7
Sign In to Your Microsoft Account
When Copilot opens for the first time, you'll be prompted to sign in. Signing in enables personalised features, conversation history, and access to premium capabilities.
Personal Microsoft Account
Use an Outlook or Hotmail address for personal use and access to free Copilot features.
Work or School Account
Log in with your organisation's credentials for enterprise-grade Copilot with Microsoft 365 integration.
Apple or Google Account
Sign in quickly using your existing Apple or Google credentials for a streamlined setup experience.
Step 8
Grant Permissions
Why permissions matter
Copilot may request access to certain features on your iPad to unlock its full functionality. Review each request carefully and grant what you're comfortable with.
Microphone — enables voice input for hands-free prompting
Photos — allows Copilot to analyse and reference your images
Notifications — keeps you informed of updates and responses
You can adjust permissions at any time in your iPad's Settings app under Privacy & Security.
Step 9
Start Your First Conversation
You're now ready to use Microsoft Copilot! The main interface is a familiar chat-style layout. Type your question or tap the microphone for voice input.
✍️ Type a Prompt
Tap the chat bar at the bottom and type any question or request to get an instant AI response.
🎤 Use Voice Input
Tap the microphone icon to speak your prompt aloud — great for quick queries on the go.
Step 10
Explore Copilot's Capabilities
Microsoft Copilot is far more than a simple chatbot. Experiment with a wide range of prompts to discover everything it can do for you.
Draft Emails
Ask Copilot to write professional emails, replies, or follow-ups in seconds.
Summarise Documents
Paste long text or upload files and ask Copilot for a concise, clear summary.
Generate Images
Use Copilot's image generation to create original visuals from a text description.
Answer Questions
Get detailed, researched answers to complex questions across any topic or subject.
🎉 Congratulations — You're Ready to Go!
You've successfully installed and set up Microsoft Copilot on your iPad. You now have a powerful AI assistant at your fingertips, ready to boost your productivity and creativity every single day.