Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights

OpenAI's Developer Mode Launch, Microsoft Copilot Free Access, and AI Licensing Chaos

Sep 17, 2025

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OpenAI has launched a beta version of Developer Mode for ChatGPT, which allows developers to utilize full read and write support for model context protocol tools. This new feature promises to enhance automation capabilities, enabling developers to create connectors for various applications, such as updating JIRA tickets or triggering workflows in services like Zapier. However, the introduction of this feature raises significant security concerns, particularly regarding the potential for prompt injections and the risk of malicious users exploiting these capabilities to access sensitive information. As the industry rapidly adopts this model context protocol, the need for secure configurations becomes increasingly urgent to prevent data breaches.

In addition to Developer Mode, OpenAI has released GPT-5 Codecs, a large-language model optimized for coding tasks. This new model has reportedly led to a tenfold increase in usage among developers within a month, largely due to its integration with GitHub for dynamic code reviews. The Codex model has been trained on real-world coding tasks, making it a powerful tool for software engineers. Developers are already recognizing its potential to identify complex bugs that other tools may miss, which could lead to higher quality code and faster delivery cycles.

Microsoft is also making strides in the AI space by introducing free co-pilot chat features in its Office applications for all Microsoft 365 Business users. This update includes a co-pilot chat sidebar in key applications like Word, Excel, and Outlook, allowing users to draft documents and analyze spreadsheets without needing an additional co-pilot license. While the premium version offers enhanced capabilities, the free features change the baseline for AI accessibility, putting powerful tools in the hands of every employee and raising concerns about shadow IT.

On the cybersecurity front, the U.S. government has redirected crucial funding originally allocated to combat threats from Huawei towards tax cuts for wealthy individuals and corporations. This shift has left national security at risk, as projects aimed at enhancing U.S. cybersecurity and infrastructure suffer from a lack of follow-through. Meanwhile, the Department of Defense is set to implement its Cybersecurity Maturity Model certification requirements, which will be mandatory for defense contractors. As scammers increasingly target small businesses with fake reviews, the need for effective cybersecurity measures and compliance becomes more pressing for service providers.

Four things to know today

00:00 AI Becomes Default: OpenAI Expands Workflows, Microsoft Democratizes Copilot, and Licensing Chaos Grows

07:19 Huawei Money Gone, CMMC Is Here, and Your Reviews Are Under Attack

10:04 Devicie, Zensai, and Apple Redefine Value: Automation, Adoption, and Repair Access

12:57 Twice the Reach, No More Cash: Broadband Program’s Success Meets a Dead End

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