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The concept of a copilot, an application utilizing modern AI and large language models to assist users with complex cognitive tasks, was first introduced by Microsoft nearly two years ago with GitHub Copilot. Since then, Microsoft has been steadily rolling out copilot experiences across its core products and services. This year, they have expanded the ecosystem even further, announcing the addition of copilots in Power BI, Power Pages, Microsoft Fabric, and Windows.
During the annual Microsoft Build developers conference, the company also unveiled new features aimed at empowering developers to build their own copilots and next-generation AI applications. One of the highlights is the introduction of plugins, which enhance the functionality of copilots by enabling interaction with other software and services.
By adopting the open plugin standard introduced by OpenAI for ChatGPT, Microsoft enables interoperability across ChatGPT and its range of copilot offerings. Developers can now build plugins that work seamlessly across various business and consumer surfaces, including ChatGPT, Bing, Dynamics 365 Copilot, Microsoft 365 Copilot, and Windows Copilot. Bing, in particular, is expanding its support for plugins, with a growing ecosystem that includes popular platforms like Expedia, Instacart, Kayak, Klarna, Redfin, TripAdvisor, and Zillow.
In addition to the plugin capabilities, Microsoft showcased an AI development framework at Build that assists developers in building their own copilots. This framework includes support for plugins, allowing AI systems to access real-time information, incorporate proprietary company data, perform new types of computations, and execute actions on behalf of users. Plugins act as bridges between large language models and various data sources or systems, enabling copilots to leverage specific information and functionality based on user queries or tasks.
According to Microsoft, copilots and plugins represent the future of software, where AI assistance becomes the norm. By providing developers with the tools and resources necessary to build their own copilots, Microsoft aims to drive innovation and create a rich ecosystem of AI-powered applications.
As the copilot concept continues to evolve, it has the potential to revolutionize how users interact with technology, streamlining complex tasks, and enhancing productivity across a wide range of domains. With Microsoft’s commitment to expanding the copilot ecosystem and empowering developers, we can expect further advancements in AI assistance and its integration into everyday software experiences.
