Microsoft is creating a self-sufficient system capable of handling customer inquiries and identifying sales leads, showcasing the potential of AI technology to investors. They are introducing artificial intelligence agents, or virtual employees.
The company offers customers the ability to build their own AI agents and has launched 10 pre-built bots for various roles such as supply chain management and customer service.
Early users of the upcoming Copilot Studio product include McKinsey, Clifford Chance, and Pets at Home. These agents are designed to handle tasks like scheduling meetings and customer inquiries autonomously.
Microsoft sees AI agents operating without human intervention as a way to boost productivity. CEO Satya Nadella believes that by automating mundane tasks, employees can focus on more valuable work, ultimately enhancing productivity.
Nadella introduced Copilot Studio as a tool to create agents without the need for coding skills. The platform comes equipped with AI models developed in-house and by partners like OpenAI.
Additionally, Microsoft is working on an AI agent capable of conducting transactions on behalf of users. While encountering some challenges during development, the company expects agents with transactional capabilities to be available in the near future.
Addressing concerns about AI’s impact on jobs, Microsoft’s Charles Lamanna believes that AI agents will eliminate monotonous tasks, empowering employees to focus on more strategic work.
Lamanna compares the integration of AI agents in the workplace to the widespread adoption of personal computers, where over time, they became essential tools for productivity.
AI experts foresee a future where AI agents can significantly contribute to a company’s profitability. However, they emphasize the need for continued advancements to match the capabilities of human workers.
Source: www.theguardian.com