@the-decoder.com
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Microsoft is pushing the boundaries of AI in both security and gaming, showcasing new advancements in both fields. On the security front, Microsoft is hosting a Tech Accelerator event on April 22, 2025, aimed at guiding developers and cloud architects on effectively integrating security best practices within Azure and AI projects. The event will provide essential guidance and resources for secure planning, building, management, and optimization of Azure deployments and AI applications. Participants will gain insights from Microsoft experts, learn how to identify security risks in Azure environments, protect infrastructure from threats, and design secure AI environments and applications.
Microsoft is also making waves in the gaming world with its real-time AI-generated playable demo of Quake II. The company's WHAMM (World and Human Action MaskGIT Model) is a generative AI model capable of supporting real-time gameplay. This model represents a significant upgrade from its predecessor, WHAM-1.6B, offering faster visual output, improved resolution, and smarter gameplay response. WHAMM can generate images at over 10 frames per second with a resolution of 640x360, a notable enhancement compared to WHAM-1.6B. The WHAMM model was trained on Quake II using intentional data curation, focusing on high-quality data collected from professional game testers. This allowed the model to efficiently learn in-game behavior with significantly less data than previous iterations. Players can interact with the game using controllers or keyboards, with the model dynamically updating the environment to respond appropriately. While WHAMM is still in its early stages and has limitations, such as occasional input lag and challenges with accurately storing stats, its accelerated rate of advancement suggests a future where entirely AI-generated video games could become a reality. Recommended read:
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@PCWorld
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Microsoft has unveiled a significant overhaul of its Copilot AI assistant, introducing new features designed to enhance its capabilities and transform it into a personalized AI companion. This marks a pivotal moment as Microsoft aims to make AI more accessible and beneficial for everyday life. The updates include improvements to memory, allowing Copilot to remember user preferences and details such as favorite foods, movies, and important dates. This personalization enables Copilot to offer customized solutions, proactive suggestions, and timely reminders, making it more intuitive and responsive to individual needs.
The upgraded Copilot now boasts enhanced multimodal capabilities, including the ability to analyze live video from mobile devices and answer questions based on visual content. It can also perform tasks on websites, such as booking tickets, making reservations, and shopping online, streamlining various online activities. The introduction of "Pages" organizes notes and research into a cohesive workspace, while the "Deep Research" function synthesizes information from documents and images, aiding in comprehensive information gathering and analysis. These features are aimed at making Copilot a more versatile and indispensable tool for both personal and professional use. These enhancements position Microsoft's Copilot as a direct competitor to other AI tools like OpenAI's ChatGPT and Google's Gemini. However, Microsoft has not provided detailed performance data or addressed potential limitations. User feedback has also highlighted mixed experiences with its functionality and privacy concerns regarding data tracking, suggesting that further refinement and transparency are needed. The rollout of these features and subsequent user reception will likely shape future iterations of the chatbot, as Microsoft strives to create an AI assistant that truly understands and caters to individual user needs. Recommended read:
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lance.ulanoff@futurenet.com (Lance@techradar.com
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Microsoft is significantly enhancing its Copilot AI assistant, adding features designed to rival competitors like ChatGPT and Gemini. Announced during Microsoft's 50th anniversary event, the update aims to make Copilot a more proactive and personalized AI companion. Key upgrades include memory retention, the ability to perform tasks on users' behalf such as booking tickets and making reservations, and enhanced multimodal capabilities allowing it to analyze visual content from mobile devices. These enhancements position Copilot as a more versatile and intuitive tool for everyday life.
One of the most notable additions is Copilot's new memory feature, enabling it to remember user preferences, favorite foods, films, birthdays and interests. This personalization allows Copilot to provide more tailored solutions, proactive suggestions, and reminders. Users will have control over what Copilot learns and retains, addressing potential privacy concerns. The update also introduces "Actions," allowing Copilot to perform tasks like booking event tickets, making dinner reservations, or buying gifts, going beyond simply providing information. Microsoft is experimenting with customizable appearances for Copilot, even suggesting the return of the beloved, albeit once-maligned, Clippy. Copilot is also receiving enhanced research capabilities, including Copilot Search, Deep Research, and the "Pages" feature. Deep Research can synthesize information from multiple web pages to produce comprehensive research reports. The Pages feature allows users to organize notes and research into a cohesive workspace, similar to features offered by Google. Copilot Vision for Windows allows the AI to interact with desktop screens to manage settings and files. Microsoft is aiming to make Copilot more accessible and useful across different platforms, including Windows, iOS, and Android, positioning it as a central AI tool for both personal and professional use. Recommended read:
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Alexey Shabanov@TestingCatalog
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Microsoft is significantly enhancing its Copilot AI assistant across various platforms as part of its 50th-anniversary celebrations. The upgrades aim to transform Copilot from a simple chatbot into a more proactive and personalized AI companion. These enhancements include memory capabilities, allowing Copilot to remember user preferences and past interactions, as well as new features such as real-time camera analysis, AI-generated podcasts, and the ability to perform tasks on the user's behalf, creating a more intuitive and helpful experience. Microsoft aims to make AI work for everyone, modeling Copilot after the helpful AI assistant Jarvis from Iron Man.
A key aspect of the Copilot update is the introduction of "Actions," enabling Copilot to act as an AI agent that can browse the web and carry out tasks like booking event tickets, making dinner reservations, and even buying gifts. This functionality will work with various websites and is designed to complete tasks without requiring constant user intervention. Copilot Vision is also expanding, now available on iOS, Android, and Windows, which enables the AI to analyze surroundings in real time through the device's camera, offering suggestions such as interior design tips or identifying objects and providing relevant information. Additionally, Copilot will offer customizable appearances, potentially through the use of avatars. Microsoft is also focusing on improving Copilot's ability to conduct research and analyze information. The new "Deep Research" feature analyzes and synthesizes data from multiple sources, similar to features in ChatGPT and Google Gemini, providing users with comprehensive insights in minutes. Microsoft has also launched Copilot Search in Bing, combining AI-generated summaries with traditional search results, providing clear source links for easy verification and a more conversational search experience. These updates are intended to make Copilot a more valuable and integrated tool for users in both their personal and professional lives. Recommended read:
References :
Alexey Shabanov@TestingCatalog
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Microsoft is significantly enhancing its Copilot AI assistant with new features focused on personalization, memory, and proactive task completion. These upgrades are designed to make Copilot a more useful and intuitive companion for users, moving beyond simple Q&A to a more personable and supportive AI experience. Microsoft's CEO of AI, Mustafa Suleyman, emphasizes that the key differentiator in the competitive AI assistant market will be the personality and tone of the AI, aiming to create a relationship where users feel like they are interacting with someone they know well.
Copilot's new capabilities include improved memory, allowing it to remember user preferences, important details like birthdays and favorite foods, and even corrections made by the user. This enhanced memory enables Copilot to provide more customized solutions, proactive suggestions, and personalized reminders. Additionally, Copilot is gaining the ability to take action on behalf of users, such as booking flights, making dinner reservations, and purchasing items online. This functionality, known as Copilot Actions, will work with various websites, making Copilot a more versatile and helpful tool for everyday tasks. Further upgrades include a new "Discover" screen on both mobile and web platforms, offering interactive cards and personalized daily briefings. The "Vision" feature allows Copilot to access and understand content from other websites when used within the Edge browser. Microsoft is also exploring features like adjustable reasoning effort, "Pages" for content creation, and animated avatars to enhance the user experience. These advancements, along with tools like "Deep Research" and the ability to generate podcasts, position Copilot as a comprehensive AI assistant capable of assisting users in various aspects of their lives. Recommended read:
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@laptopmag.com
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Microsoft is celebrating its 50th anniversary on April 4th, 2025, marking a significant milestone focused on its AI driven future. Top executives highlighted the company's vision for AI, centered around Copilot, which will be further integrated into Microsoft products. Mustafa Suleyman, CEO of Microsoft AI, emphasized that Copilot will understand users in the context of their lives and show up in the right way at the right time, calling it "a new kind of relationship with technology."
Microsoft is launching Researcher and Analyst AI agents in Microsoft 365 Copilot. Researcher integrates OpenAI's deep research model with Microsoft 365 Copilot's orchestration and search capabilities to perform complex, multi-step research workflows. Analyst, powered by OpenAI's o3-mini reasoning model, helps turn raw data into actionable insights within minutes, capable of running Python code to process complex data queries. These agents, accessible through the "Frontier" program, aim to provide on-demand assistance in data analysis and general research tasks, enhancing user capabilities across various applications. Recommended read:
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Alexey Shabanov@TestingCatalog
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Microsoft is supercharging its Copilot assistant with new capabilities, transforming it into a companion for all. The company is equipping Copilot with new features designed to make it more responsive and helpful, including memory recall and personalization. This will allow the AI assistant to better understand and remember user preferences, complete tasks, analyze surroundings, and keep life organized. Microsoft aims to make AI work for everyone and wants Copilot to become the AI companion people want, tailored just for them.
Microsoft launched two AI reasoning agents for 365 Copilot: Researcher and Analyst. Researcher handles complex research using multiple sources, while Analyst functions as a data scientist to transform raw data into insights. These agents will roll out this month as part of a new program called "Frontier". The company is also adding new mobile and web features, personalization options, and exclusive tools for Surface devices. Recommended read:
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Ken Yeung@Ken Yeung
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Microsoft is launching a 50-day AI Skills Fest, starting April 8, 2025, aimed at helping individuals advance their technical knowledge in artificial intelligence. The global event will feature a wide array of activities including hackathons, both live in-person and virtual events, self-paced tutorials, and community events. Microsoft hopes to set a Guinness World Record for the most participants completing an online multi-level AI lesson in 24 hours as part of the inaugural launch.
Microsoft is also rolling out updates to its Copilot+ PCs. AMD and Intel-powered Copilot+ PCs will gain access to Windows Copilot features like Cocreator, Image Creator, Live Captions and Restyle Image, previously available only on Snapdragon-powered devices. These features utilize the onboard Neural Processing Unit (NPU) and generative AI to enhance user experiences within Microsoft Paint and Photos, enabling image generation and modification. Recommended read:
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Mike Wheatley@SiliconANGLE
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Microsoft is enhancing its Copilot AI assistant with advanced reasoning and agent capabilities aimed at boosting productivity across various Microsoft 365 applications. Key updates include deep reasoning within Copilot Studio and the introduction of specialized AI agents like Researcher and Analyst, designed to tackle complex problems and provide more nuanced insights. These agents leverage advanced reasoning models, such as OpenAI's o1 and o3-mini, to perform detailed analysis, methodical thinking, and data-driven decision-making, simulating the approach of skilled professionals.
Microsoft is also integrating its Security Copilot with AI agents to automate tasks. New agents being added to Security Copilot include ones designed to sort through large volumes of security info, analyze notifications, and fix insecure user access rules. Microsoft also released a new Knowledge Base-Augmented Language Models (KBLaM) system which is a more efficient way to incorporate external knowledge into language models. All of these tools are designed to give you the help you need faster. Recommended read:
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Ken Yeung@Ken Yeung
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Microsoft is enhancing its Copilot Studio platform with new 'deep reasoning' capabilities, allowing AI agents to solve complex problems more effectively. This upgrade also includes 'agent flows' which blend AI's flexibility with structured business automation. The new Researcher and Analyst agents for Microsoft 365 Copilot represent a significant step forward in AI agent evolution, enabling them to handle sophisticated tasks requiring detailed analysis and methodical thinking.
Microsoft's Security Copilot service is also getting a boost with a set of AI agents designed to automate repetitive tasks, freeing up security professionals to focus on more critical threats. These AI agents are designed to assist with critical tasks such as phishing, data security, and identity management. These agents showcase the breadth of what can be created when combining enterprise business data, access to advanced reasoning models, and structured workflows. Recommended read:
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Vasu Jakkal@Microsoft Security Blog
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Microsoft has unveiled a significant expansion of its Security Copilot platform, integrating AI agents designed to automate security operations tasks and alleviate the workload on cybersecurity professionals. This move aims to address the increasing volume and complexity of cyberattacks, which are overwhelming security teams that rely on manual processes. The AI-powered agents will handle routine tasks, freeing up IT and security staff to tackle more complex issues and proactive security measures. Microsoft detected over 30 billion phishing emails targeting customers between January and December 2024 highlighting the urgent need for automated solutions.
The expansion includes eleven AI agents, six developed by Microsoft and five by security partners, set for preview in April 2025. Microsoft's agents include the Phishing Triage Agent in Microsoft Defender, Alert Triage Agents in Microsoft Purview, Conditional Access Optimization Agent in Microsoft Entra, Vulnerability Remediation Agent in Microsoft Intune, and Threat Intelligence Briefing Agent in Security Copilot. These agents are purpose-built for security, designed to learn from feedback, adapt to workflows, and operate securely within Microsoft’s Zero Trust framework, ensuring that security teams retain full control over their actions and responses. Recommended read:
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Vasu Jakkal@Microsoft Security Blog
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Microsoft is enhancing its Security Copilot with new AI agents designed to automate cybersecurity tasks and offer advanced reasoning capabilities. These agents aim to streamline security operations, allowing security teams to focus on complex threats and proactive security measures. The agents, which will be available for preview in April 2025, will assist with critical areas like phishing, data security, and identity management.
The introduction of AI agents in Security Copilot addresses the overwhelming volume and complexity of cyberattacks. For example, the Phishing Triage Agent can handle routine phishing alerts, freeing up human defenders. In addition, Microsoft is introducing new innovations across Microsoft Defender, Microsoft Entra, and Microsoft Purview to help organizations secure their future with an AI-first security platform. Six new agentic solutions from Microsoft Security will enable teams to autonomously handle high-volume security and IT tasks while seamlessly integrating with existing Microsoft Security solutions. Recommended read:
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Charles Lamanna@Microsoft 365 Blog
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Microsoft is enhancing Copilot Studio with new capabilities to build autonomous agents, set to be in public preview at Microsoft Ignite 2024. These agents are designed to understand the nature of users' work and act on their behalf, offering support across business roles, teams, and functions. The goal is to transform business operations by automating complex tasks and streamlining workflows.
These autonomous agents can be configured, secured, and tested, automating tasks across apps and data sources for entire teams. Organizations are already utilizing Copilot Studio to create agents for specific business workflows, such as Pets at Home, which developed an agent for its profit protection team that could potentially drive a seven-figure annual savings. Copilot Studio plays a crucial role in customizing Copilot and creating agents for an entire company, enhancing efficiency, customer experience, and driving growth. Recommended read:
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Richard Speed@The Register
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Microsoft is enhancing its Copilot product with new AI-powered features, including voice chat and the integration of agents created in Microsoft Copilot Studio. Windows 11 users will soon be able to initiate voice queries instantly using a new "Press to Talk" feature. This feature allows users to summon Copilot with a simple shortcut – holding down Alt + Spacebar for two seconds – triggering a microphone to appear on the screen, enabling voice interaction with the AI assistant. The update is gradually rolling out to Windows Insiders through the Microsoft Store.
These agents, built using the Microsoft Copilot Studio agent builder, will be directly accessible within Copilot Chat. Microsoft aims to empower every employee with a Copilot and transform business processes with agents, enabling workforces from customer service to marketing to use Copilot and agents. This aims to make AI interactions more seamless and efficient. Copilot Studio usage is measured in "messages" and can be purchased through the Copilot Studio meter in Microsoft Azure. Recommended read:
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stclarke@Source
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Microsoft is enhancing its Copilot capabilities by introducing new sales agents designed to streamline the sales process. These agents, accessible through Microsoft 365 Copilot and Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat, aim to help sales teams close deals faster by providing assistance with lead qualification, meeting setup, and customer outreach. The Sales Agent can autonomously work around the clock to grow the sales pipeline, even completing sales for low-impact leads by leveraging CRM data, company information, and web resources.
Estée Lauder is using the Sales Agent to reimagine trend forecasting and consumer marketing. Estée Lauder is also building a generative AI ecosystem with Copilot Studio, Azure OpenAI Service and Azure AI Search to move product to market faster. Vodafone projects to double or triple the number of requests for proposals its sales team can respond to each week. Salesforce has also launched Agentforce 2dx, enabling AI agents to work proactively across enterprise systems without human prompting. This update allows companies to embed agentic AI into workflows, monitor data changes, and initiate processes autonomously. IT leaders at TDX 2025 discussed the impact of AI on their businesses, with some experiencing significant revenue increases with AI implementation. Recommended read:
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The Copilot@Microsoft Copilot Blog
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References:
9to5Mac
, www.engadget.com
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Microsoft has announced significant expansions and updates to its Copilot AI assistant, aiming to broaden its accessibility and utility. Key features like unlimited Voice access and the Think Deeper function are now available to all users, free of charge, in nearly every market where the Copilot app is offered. The Voice feature now supports over 40 languages, enabling hands-free interaction with the AI, while Think Deeper offers enhanced insights without usage limits, beneficial for tasks ranging from interview preparation to complex problem-solving.
Microsoft has also launched a native Copilot application for macOS, marking a notable step in making its AI accessible across different ecosystems. The macOS app, requiring macOS 14.0 or later and running on Apple's M1 chip or later, provides a dedicated platform for users to interact with Copilot, complete with keyboard shortcut support (Command + Space) for quick access. The initial rollout is focused on the US, UK, and Canada. The app allows users to upload images, generate images and text, use the shortcut launcher, dark mode, and use Think Deeper. Recommended read:
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stclarke@Source
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Microsoft Copilot is enhancing its capabilities with expanded language support and unlimited Voice access for all users. These updates show Microsoft’s dedication to improving user experience and accessibility, ensuring Copilot can assist users effectively in various situations. Regular release notes will keep users informed about the newest features, enhancements, and bug fixes, ensuring everyone stays in the loop.
Expanding access, Copilot now offers unlimited Voice access in nearly every market where the app is available, supporting over 40 languages for hands-free interaction. Additionally, the Think Deeper feature, providing in-depth insights, is now available on mobile and for free users without usage limits. Pro users in the US can also leverage Copilot Vision within Microsoft Edge for contextual browsing assistance. Copilot now offers new functionalities to boost communication and productivity. Voice interactions are enhanced with web retrieval, enriching conversations with the latest information. Voice transcripts capture dialogues, ensuring users never miss crucial details, and Copilot is now integrated with WhatsApp and Telegram, streamlining AI-powered assistance within existing conversations. Further productivity improvements include a refined Discover layout, expanded sign-in options, and the ability to upload PDFs and Word documents directly to Copilot. Recommended read:
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