Search This Blog
Powered by Blogger.

Blog Archive

Labels

Load More
Trendy Right Now

Popular Posts

Showing posts with label Microsoft Copilot. Show all posts
Vulnerabilities and Exploits
AI image generation Copilot image generation models Microsoft Microsoft Copilot Vulnerabilities and Exploits

Microsoft Employee Raises Alarms Over Copilot Designer and Urges Government Intervention

 

Shane Jones, a principal software engineering manager at Microsoft, has sounded the alarm about the safety of Copilot Designer, a generative AI tool introduced by the company in March 2023. 

His concerns have prompted him to submit a letter to both the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Microsoft's board of directors, calling for an investigation into the text-to-image generator. Jones's apprehension revolves around Copilot Designer's unsettling capacity to generate potentially inappropriate images, spanning themes such as explicit content, violence, underage drinking, and drug use, as well as instances of political bias and conspiracy theories. 

Beyond highlighting these concerns, he has emphasized the critical need to educate the public, especially parents and educators, about the associated risks, particularly in educational settings where the tool may be utilized. Despite Jones's persistent efforts over the past three months to address the issue internally at Microsoft, the company has not taken action to remove Copilot Designer from public use or implement adequate safeguards. His recommendations, including the addition of disclosures and adjustments to the product's rating on the Android app store, were not implemented by the tech giant. 

Microsoft responded to the concerns raised by Jones, assuring its commitment to addressing employee concerns within the framework of company policies. The company expressed appreciation for efforts aimed at enhancing the safety of its technology. However, the situation underscores the internal challenges companies may face in balancing innovation with the responsibility of ensuring their technologies are safe and ethical. 

This incident isn't the first time Jones has spoken out about AI safety concerns. Despite facing pressure from Microsoft's legal team, Jones persisted in voicing his concerns, even extending his efforts to communicate with US senators about the broader risks associated with AI safety. The case of Copilot Designer adds to the ongoing scrutiny of AI technologies in the tech industry. Google recently paused access to its image generation feature on Gemini, its competitor to OpenAI's ChatGPT, after facing complaints about historically inaccurate images involving race. 

DeepMind, Google's AI division, reassured users that the feature would be reinstated after addressing the concerns and ensuring responsible use of the technology. As AI technologies become increasingly integrated into various aspects of our lives, incidents like the one involving Copilot Designer highlight the imperative for vigilant oversight and ethical considerations in AI development and deployment. The intersection of innovation and responsible AI use remains a complex landscape that necessitates collaboration between tech companies, regulatory bodies, and stakeholders to ensure the ethical and safe evolution of AI technologies.
Read more »
Technology
AI technology Financial Data Microsoft Microsoft Copilot Technology

Microsoft Copilot for Finance: Transforming Financial Workflows with AI Precision

 

In a groundbreaking move, Microsoft has unveiled the public preview for Microsoft Copilot for Finance, a specialized AI assistant catering to the unique needs of finance professionals. This revolutionary AI-powered tool not only automates tedious data tasks but also assists finance teams in navigating the ever-expanding pool of financial data efficiently. 

Microsoft’s Corporate Vice President of Business Applications Marketing, highlighted the significance of Copilot for Finance, emphasizing that despite the popularity of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, Excel remains the go-to platform for many finance professionals. Copilot for Finance is strategically designed to leverage the Excel calculation engine and ERP data, streamlining tasks and enhancing efficiency for finance teams. 

Building upon the foundation laid by Microsoft's Copilot technology released last year, Copilot for Finance takes a leap forward by integrating seamlessly with Microsoft 365 apps like Excel and Outlook. This powerful AI assistant focuses on three critical finance scenarios: audits, collections, and variance analysis. Charles Lamanna, Microsoft’s Corporate Vice President of Business Applications & Platforms, explained that Copilot for Finance represents a paradigm shift in the development of AI assistants. 

Unlike its predecessor, Copilot for Finance is finely tuned to understand the nuances of finance roles, offering targeted recommendations within the Excel environment. The specialization of Copilot for Finance sets it apart from the general Copilot assistant, as it caters specifically to the needs of finance professionals. This focused approach allows the AI assistant to pull data from financial systems, analyze variances, automate collections workflows, and assist with audits—all without requiring users to leave the Excel application. 

Microsoft's strategic move towards role-based AI reflects a broader initiative to gain a competitive edge over rivals. Copilot for Finance has the potential to accelerate impact and reduce financial operation costs for finance professionals across organizations of all sizes. By enabling interoperability between Microsoft 365 and existing data sources, Microsoft aims to provide customers with seamless access to business data in their everyday applications. 

Despite promising significant efficiency gains, the introduction of AI-driven systems like Copilot for Finance raises valid concerns around data privacy, security, and compliance. Microsoft assures users that they have implemented measures to address these concerns, such as leveraging data access permissions and avoiding direct training of models on customer data. 

As Copilot for Finance moves into general availability later this year, Microsoft faces the challenge of maintaining data governance measures while expanding the AI assistant's capabilities. The summer launch target for general availability, as suggested by members of the Copilot for Finance launch team, underscores the urgency and anticipation surrounding this transformative AI tool. 

With over 100,000 organizations already benefiting from Copilot, the rapid adoption of Copilot for Finance could usher in a new era of AI in the enterprise. Microsoft's commitment to refining data governance and addressing user feedback will be pivotal in ensuring the success and competitiveness of Copilot for Finance in the dynamic landscape of AI-powered financial assistance.
Read more »
Technology
AI Assistant AI technology Microsoft Microsoft Copilot Technology

Microsoft Copilot: A Visual Revolution in AI Image Editing

 

In a significant and forward-thinking development, Microsoft has recently upgraded its AI-powered coding assistant, Copilot, introducing a groundbreaking feature that extends its capabilities into the realm of AI image editing. This not only marks a substantial expansion of Copilot's functionalities but also brings about a visual overhaul to its interface, signifying a noteworthy stride in the convergence of artificial intelligence and creative processes. 

Microsoft Copilot initially gained prominence for its role in assisting developers with code suggestions. However, it has now transcended its traditional coding domain, venturing into the arena of image editing. Leveraging advanced machine learning algorithms, Copilot can intelligently understand and interpret user inputs, providing real-time suggestions for image editing. This fusion of coding assistance and visual creativity not only showcases the versatility of AI technologies but also points towards an era where these technologies seamlessly integrate into various aspects of digital workflows. 

Accompanying the introduction of AI image editing, Microsoft Copilot's user interface has undergone a substantial visual overhaul. The interface seamlessly integrates both coding and image editing functionalities, offering users a unified and intuitive experience. This revamped design is intended to streamline workflows, allowing users to transition seamlessly between coding tasks and creative endeavours without encountering friction in their digital workspaces. 

The integration of AI image editing within Microsoft Copilot holds the potential to revolutionize the collaborative efforts of developers and designers. With a single tool now offering both coding assistance and visual creativity, there is an opportunity for increased synergy between these traditionally distinct roles. This streamlined workflow could result in more efficient project development, ultimately reducing the gap between the ideation and execution phases of digital projects. 

Furthermore, Microsoft Copilot's foray into image editing emphasizes the growing influence of AI in creative processes. By harnessing machine learning capabilities, Copilot can analyze image contexts and user preferences, providing relevant and context-aware suggestions. This not only accelerates the image editing process but also introduces an element of creativity and inspiration driven by AI algorithms. 

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, the upgrade to Microsoft Copilot with AI image editing capabilities signifies a significant step forward. As the boundaries between coding and creative tasks blur, this development showcases the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of digital workspaces. Microsoft Copilot stands as a testament to Microsoft's commitment to innovation, highlighting the seamless integration of technology into diverse aspects of digital work.
Read more »
Technology
AI technology Artificial Inteligence Microsoft 365 Microsoft Copilot Technology

Microsoft is Rolling out an AI Powered Key

 


Prepare for a paradigm shift as Microsoft takes a giant leap forward with a game-changing announcement – the integration of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) key in their keyboards, the most substantial update in 30 years. 

This futuristic addition promises an interactive and seamless user experience, bringing cutting-edge technology to the tips of your fingers. Explore the next frontier of computing as Microsoft redefines the way we engage with our keyboards, setting a new standard for innovation in the digital age. The groundbreaking addition grants users seamless access to Copilot, Microsoft's dynamic AI tool designed to elevate your computing experience. 

At the forefront of AI advancements, Microsoft, a key investor in OpenAI, strategically integrates Copilot's capabilities into various products. Witness the evolution of AI as Microsoft weaves its intelligence into the fabric of everyday tools like Microsoft 365 and enhances search experiences through Bing. 

Not to be outdone, rival Apple has long embraced AI integration, evident in Macbooks featuring a dedicated Siri button on their touch bar. As the tech giants vie for user-friendly AI interfaces, Microsoft's AI key emerges as a pivotal player in redefining how we interact with technology. 

Copilot, the star of Microsoft's AI arsenal, goes beyond the ordinary, assisting users in tasks ranging from efficient searches to crafting emails and even generating visually striking images. It's not just a tool; it's your personalised AI companion, simplifying tasks and enriching your digital journey. Welcome to the era where every keystroke opens doors to boundless possibilities. 

By pressing this key, users seamlessly engage with Copilot, enhancing their daily experiences with artificial intelligence. Similar to the impact of the Windows key introduced nearly 30 years ago, the Copilot key marks another significant milestone in our journey with Windows, serving as the gateway to the realm of AI on PCs. 

In the days leading up to and during CES, the Copilot key will debut on numerous Windows 11 PCs from our ecosystem partners. Expect its availability from later this month through Spring, including integration into upcoming Surface devices. 

This addition, which simplifies access to Copilot, has already made waves in Office 365 applications like Word, PowerPoint, and Teams, offering functionalities such as meeting summarization, email writing, and presentation creation. Bing, Microsoft's search engine, has also integrated Copilot. 

According to Prof John Tucker from Swansea University, the introduction of this key is a natural progression, showcasing Microsoft's commitment to enhancing user experience across various products. Despite Windows 11 users already having access to Copilot via the Windows key + C shortcut, the new dedicated key emphasises the feature's value.

Acknowledging the slow evolution of keyboards over the past 30 years, Prof Tucker notes that Microsoft's focus on this particular feature illustrates its potential to engage users across multiple products. Google, a dominant search engine, employs its own AI system called Bard, while Microsoft's Copilot is built on OpenAI's GPT-4 language model, introduced in 2022. 

The UK's competition watchdog is delving into Microsoft's ties with OpenAI, prompted by disruptions in the corporate landscape that resulted in a tight connection between the two entities. The investigation seeks to understand the implications of this close association on competition within the industry. 

As we anticipate its showcase at CES, this innovative addition not only reflects Microsoft's commitment to user-friendly technology but also sparks curiosity about the evolving landscape of AI integration. Keep your eyes on the keyboard – the Copilot key signals a transformative era where AI becomes an everyday companion in our digital journey.


Read more »
Technology
AI Chatbots Bing Chat Chatbot ChatGPT Copilot Microsoft Microsoft Copilot Technology

Bing Chat Rebrands to ‘Copilot’: What is New?


Bing Chat has been renamed as ‘Copilot,’ according to an announcement made during Microsoft Ignite 2023.

But, is the name change the only new thing the users will be introduced with? The answer could be a little ambiguous. 

What is New with Bing Chat (now Copilot)? Honestly, there are no significant changes in Copilot, previously called Bing Chat. “Refinement” might be a more appropriate term to characterize Microsoft's perplexing activities. Let's examine three modifications that Microsoft made to its AI chatbot.

Here, we are listing some of these refinements:

1. A New Home

Copilot, then Bing Chat, now has its own standalone webpage. One can access this webpage at https://copilot.microsoft.com

This means that the user will no longer be required to visit Bing in order to access Microsoft’s AI chat experience. One can simply visit the aforementioned webpage, without Bing Search and other services interfering with your experience. Put differently, it has become much more "ChatGPT-like" now. 

Notably, however, the link seems to only function with desktop versions of Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome. 

2. A Minor Makeover

While Microsoft has made certain visual changes in the rebranded Bing Chat, they are however insignificant. 

This new version has smaller tiles but still has the same prompts: Write, Create, Laugh, Code, Organize, Compare, and Travel.

However, the users can still choose the conversation style, be it Creative, Balanced and Precise. The only big change, as mentioned before, is the new name (Copilot) and the tagline: "Your everyday AI companion." 

Though the theme colour switched from light blue to an off-white, the user interface is largely the same.

Users can access DALLE-3 and GPT-4 for free with Bing Chat, which is now called Copilot. But in order to utilize Copilot on platforms like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other widely used productivity tools, users will have to pay a membership fee for what Microsoft refers to as "Copilot for Microsoft 365."

3. Better Security for Enterprise Users

With Copilot, users can access DALLE-3 and GPT-4 for free. But in order to utilize Copilot on platforms like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other widely used productivity tools, users will have to pay a membership fee for what Microsoft refers to as "Copilot for Microsoft 365."

This way, users who have had a Bing Chat Enterprise account, or pay for a Microsoft 365 license, will get an additional benefit of more data protection./ Copilot will be officially launched on December 1. 

What Stayed the Same? 

Microsoft plans to gradually add commercial data protection for those who do not pay. However, Copilot currently stores information from your interactions and follows the same data policy as the previous version of Bing Chat for free users. Therefore, the name and domain change is the only difference for casual, non-subscribing Bing Chat users. OpenAI's GPT-4 and DALL-E 3 models are still available, but users need to be careful about sharing too much personal data with the chatbot.

In summary, there is not much to be excited about for free users: Copilot is the new name for Bing Chat, and it has a new home.  

Read more »
Technology
AI Assistant AI Chatbot AI-powered tool Copilot Microsoft Microsoft 365 Microsoft Copilot Technology

Microsoft Copilot: New AI Chatbot can Attend Meetings for Users


A ChatGPT-style AI chatbot, developed by Microsoft will now help online users summarize their Teams meetings by drafting emails, and creating Word documents, spreadsheet graphs, and PowerPoint presentations in very little time. 

Microsoft introduced Copilot – its workplace assistant – earlier this year, labelling the product as a “copilot for work.”

Copilot which will be made available for the users from November 1, will be integrated to the subscribers of Microsoft 365 apps such as Word, Excel, Teams and PowerPoint – with a subscription worth $30 per user/month.

Additionally, as part of the new service, employees at companies who use Microsoft's Copilot could theoretically send their AI helpers to meetings in their place, allowing them to miss or double-book appointments and focus on other tasks.

‘Busywork That Bogs Us Down’

With businesses including General Motors, KPMG, and Goodyear, Microsoft has been testing Copilot, which assists users with tasks like email writing and coding. Early feedback from those companies has revealed that it is used to swiftly respond to emails and inquire about meetings. 

According to Jared Spataro, corporate vice president of modern work and business applications at Microsoft, “[Copilot] combines the power of large language models (LLMs) with your data…to turn your words into the most powerful productivity tool on the planet,” he said in a March blog post. 

Spataro promised that the technology would “lighten the load” for online users, stating that for many white-collar workers, “80% of our time is consumed with busywork that bogs us down.”

For many office workers, this so-called "busywork" includes attending meetings. According to a recent British study, office workers waste 213 hours annually, or 27 full working days, in meetings where the agenda could have been communicated by email.

Companies like Shopify are deliberately putting a stop to pointless meetings. When the e-commerce giant introduced an internal "cost calculator" for staff meetings, it made headlines during the summer. According to corporate leadership, each 30-minute meeting costs the company between $700 and $1,600.

Copilot will now help in reducing this expense. The AI assistant's services include the ability to "follow" meetings and produce a transcript, summary, and notes once they are over.

Microsoft, in July, noted that “the next wave of generative AI for Teams,” which included incorporating Copilot further into Teams calls and meetings.

“You can also ask Copilot to draft notes for you during the call and highlight key points, such as names, dates, numbers, and tasks using natural language commands[…]You can quickly synthesize key information from your chat threads—allowing you to ask specific questions (or use one of the suggested prompts) to help get caught up on the conversation so far, organize key discussion points, and summarize information relevant to you,” the company noted.

In regard to the same, Spataro states that “Every meeting is a productive meeting with Copilot in Teams[…]It can summarize key discussion points—including who said what and where people are aligned and where they disagree—and suggest action items, all in real-time during a meeting.

However, Microsoft is not the only tech giant working on making meeting tolerant, as Zoom and Google have also introduced AI-powered chatbots for the online workforce that can attend meetings on behalf of the user, and present its conclusions during the get-together.  

Read more »
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)