Microsoft unveils AI innovations at Ignite 2024

CHICAGO — Microsoft revealed groundbreaking AI technologies for empowering business operations and employees at the recent Ignite 2024. 

The event is Microsoft’s flagship conference where it unveils its latest innovations. This year’s Ignite was held from November 18 to 22, 2024, in Chicago, Illinois.

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The hybrid event featured new features to Microsoft 365 Copilot, such as Copilot Actions. It automates routine tasks so that users can focus on more strategic ones. 

Copilot Actions lets employees rely on AI to summarize meeting action items, gather newsletter content, and prepare for customer engagements.

Furthermore, Microsoft’s 365 new agents use SharePoint knowledge, translate Teams meetings in real-time, and automate self-service functions.

Ignite 2024 also unveiled AI upgrades for Microsoft Copilot Studio, namely AI agent creation. As the name suggests. The feature allows users to create autonomous agents that can manage complex tasks like customer service and financial operations. 

These AI assistants understand the complexity of various roles and act on behalf of others. Consequently, it helps businesses become AI-first organizations with enhanced operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Microsoft AI agents incorporate large language models (LLMs), letting them execute tasks that traditionally required manual intervention. 

Beyond Ignite 2024, Microsoft’s AI tools have been transforming several leading companies in various industries: 

• Visa uses Copilot to enhance the accuracy of its financial operations.
• Pfizer uses Microsoft AI to facilitate its drug discovery and development processes.
• Honda employs this artificial intelligence to streamline quality checks.

The Philippines has also been harnessing AI’s potential. Specifically, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) launched the National AI Strategy Roadmap 2.0 and the Center for AI Research (CAIR). 

Moreover, 74% of Filipino business leaders believe AI tools can drive workplace efficiency.

Microsoft welcomes businesses to explore these innovations and participate in transforming the future of work.