Microsoft is doubling down on workplace automation by unveiling new artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities that allow its enterprise customers to create personalized digital workers for common office tasks.
The company announcement On Tuesday, November 19, at its annual Ignite developer conference, Microsoft 365 Copilot will include “Copilot Actions,” allowing users to create automated workflows for routine tasks like meeting summaries and email newsletters. team.
“With Copilot Actions, Microsoft finally connects generative AI directly to the daily workflows of the hundreds of millions of people who use Microsoft 365 every day. » Rudina Seserithe founder of Glass-winged companies and a long-time investor in AI technology, told PYMNTS.
“Tying the AI agent directly to specific, customizable tasks lowers the barriers to entry for businesses looking to leverage AI by allowing them to incorporate AI at a granular level. »
AI agents redefine automation
AI agents are autonomous software programs designed to perceive their environment, make decisions, and take actions to achieve specific goals. They can operate in a variety of contexts, from virtual assistants to complex financial trading or robotics systems.
“Copilot Actions marks the start of a new era in which workflow automation becomes intuitive and widely accessible” Anbang Xufounder of JoggAIan AI-powered video platform, told PYMNTS.
“Traditional automation tools come with steep learning curves or require dedicated IT resources. By leveraging AI to simplify the process, Copilot Actions enables employees to independently streamline their tasks, fostering a culture of self-sufficiency.
Major companies have recently unveiled advances in AI agent technology. Hired meta-platforms Clara Shihformer Salesforce AI leader, to lead its Business AI group, focusing on practical AI tools for businesses.
OpenAI would have plans an autonomous agent, named “Operator,” scheduled for release in early 2025, signaling its ambition to lead the autonomous AI sector.
In the meantime, Google would test AI agents based on Gemini with improved reasoning and contextual understanding aimed at expanding applications in enterprise environments. These developments highlight the growing competition and innovation in leveraging AI agents to transform industries and streamline operations.
“We recognize the immense ROI potential of Microsoft’s new AI automation tools. » Christian Lauco-founder and product manager has Dynamo AItold PYMNTS. “By reducing the time spent on routine tasks, companies can expect substantial productivity gains.
“Yet to fully realize this potential, businesses must prioritize the responsible deployment of AI. For example, our DynamoGuard offers custom guardrails that can be seamlessly integrated with Microsoft Copilot, providing real-time moderation with 11x lower latency and more than twice the rapid injection detection accuracy of traditional methods.
Lots of news
In other news announced at the conference, Microsoft revealed numerous AI integrations and Windows updates. THE The Windows 11 taskbar will receive new “companions” providing quick access to contacts, files and calendar appointments.
The company presented Windows 365 linka $349 mini PC designed for Windows cloud streaming, targeting businesses transitioning to virtual machines. In terms of collaboration, Microsoft Teams will benefit from an AI-based interpreter will be available in early 2025, allowing participants to speak and listen in their preferred languages while simulating their natural voice.
Security enhancements include Windows Resilience Initiativedeveloped in response to the CrowdStrike incident which affected 8.5 million devices. Microsoft also announced Zero Day Questa hacking event offering $4 million in rewards for discovering security vulnerabilities in cloud and AI systems.
Other announcements include Windows Fixwhich allows enterprise customers to install updates without restarting; Microsoft Placeswho coordinates office presence; And Azure AI Foundrya unified platform for organizations to manage their AI tools. The Microsoft 365 app icon will also be updated to match the Copilot branding.