What you need to know
- Microsoft 365 Copilot will soon be able to run AI models locally, reducing the requirement to use the web to perform AI tasks.
- The new capability was announced during Microsoft Ignite 2024.
- Microsoft also discussed the delay of Windows Recall and upcoming improvements to Windows Copilot Runtime during its conference.
As a tech enthusiast with over two decades of experience under my belt, I must say that Microsoft’s recent announcements at Ignite 2024 have left me both excited and slightly perplexed. The ability for Microsoft 365 Copilot to run AI models locally on Copilot+ PCs is a game-changer, no doubt about it. Reducing the reliance on the web for AI tasks can lead to faster responses, increased privacy, and overall smoother experiences. However, I can’t help but feel that this feature should have been available from day one. It feels like Microsoft is playing catch-up in their own game.
Microsoft 365 Copilot is set to receive an upgrade, allowing it to leverage Neural Processing Units (NPUs) within compatible PCs. This update will enable AI models to run locally, thereby decreasing the need for online resources when executing AI-driven tasks. At Ignite 2024, Microsoft also disclosed that Windows Recall has been postponed and revealed upcoming features tailored for developers interested in utilizing AI-centric hardware.
So far, Copilot+ PCs haven’t boasted unique features that leverage Neural Processing Units (NPUs). The release of Windows Recall has been postponed on multiple occasions, and I’m not convinced that enhancements like camera background blurring significantly impact buying decisions. While there are third-party applications utilizing NPUs, Microsoft hasn’t yet introduced compelling Windows 11 features that make a Copilot+ PC stand out. However, this could change with the new features unveiled at Ignite 2024.
Copilot+ PCs running AI locally
As an excited enthusiast, I’m thrilled about the upcoming enhancement for Microsoft 365 Copilot on Copilot+ PCs. The most significant change will be the capability to execute models locally, empowering users to leverage AI more frequently without relying heavily on the web. This local AI strength will be evident in AI writing assistance within Outlook and Word, making Microsoft 365 Copilot even more versatile and efficient.
Microsoft emphasized in its press releases that they are just scratching the surface of what Microsoft 365 Copilot can achieve on Copilot+ PCs. It’s no surprise that the company highlighted the potential of these devices in a positive light. However, many experts, including our Senior Editor Zac Bowden, contend that Microsoft’s debut of Copilot+ PCs has been an unmitigated failure.
Microsoft unveiled Copilot+ PCs in May, generating excitement for upcoming hardware. However, due to the delay of Windows Recall, unusual restrictions on what qualifies as a Copilot+ PC, and Apple entering the AI computer market, the anticipated momentum for Copilot+ PCs has yet to materialize.
I’d contend that integrating AI model running capabilities, such as Microsoft 365 Copilot on Windows 11, will make top-tier Copilot+ PCs feel more like dedicated Copilot devices rather than regular computers that merely offer a shortcut to the web-based version of Copilot.
Windows Recall
During Ignite 2024, Microsoft acknowledged the delay in releasing Windows Recall due to the public’s concerns about its security. This feature, which allows users to search through their screen captures using AI, received significant criticism upon announcement. In fact, Microsoft was forced to remove Recall from Copilot+ PCs right before they hit the market, stripping away a key selling point for these devices.
I concur with Microsoft’s choice to prioritize the security of Windows Recall, but I feel the approach taken in announcing and releasing this feature could have been more impactful. However, we can’t change the past, so now Microsoft must concentrate on ensuring that Windows Recall lives up to its security promises. This was the main focus during their Ignite conference.
Microsoft shared feedback on Windows Recall and assured users that the safety of this feature is a priority. Initially, Windows Recall will be turned off automatically for all users, but IT administrators can choose to activate it if necessary. Employees won’t have access to Windows Recall unless their admin enables it first. Additionally, Microsoft plans to enhance the security of Windows Recall by adding more data encryption and integrating it with Windows Hello protection.
As a researcher delving into the topic of Windows Recall, I found it intriguing that Microsoft’s press releases do not disclose explicit timelines for testing or launch. However, they have expressed their anticipation towards receiving feedback on the revamped Windows Recall user experience.
Windows Copilot Runtime (WCR)
Developers will acquire fresh resources to leverage AI-centric hardware like NPUs. The Windows Copilot Runtime, unveiled at Build 2024, is intended to facilitate developers in creating AI applications more efficiently.
Microsoft has detailed the upcoming imaging APIs within the Windows Copilot Runtime. These innovative APIs are set to be included in the Windows APK SDK 1.7 Experimental 2, slated for release in January 2025.
- Image super resolution: API increases fidelity of the image as well as upscaling the resolution of the image. This API can be used to enhance clarity of blurry images.
- Image segmentation: API enables separating foreground and background of an image, as well as removing specific objects or regions within an image. Creativity apps like image editing or video editing can easily bring background removal capabilities in their apps using this API.
- Object erase: This API enables erasing unwanted objects from the image and blends the erased area with the rest of the background.
- Image description: API provides a text description of an image.
Currently, software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Affinity Photo, and various other third-party applications make use of the Windows Copilot Runtime. As more application programming interfaces (APIs) are made accessible to developers, we can expect that list to expand.
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2024-11-19 16:44