Microsoft currently stands out as a frontrunner in the realm of AI, consistently introducing fresh products and updates to maintain a competitive edge. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the company utilized its recent Surface and Windows AI event in March to unveil a range of new AI features and tools.
Additionally: Microsoft Introduces Surface Pro 10 and Laptop 6 with Enhanced AI Capabilities. Here’s What’s New
As indicated by Microsoft’s event theme, “Advancing the new century of work with Copilot,” the focus was primarily on the company’s AI services tailored for business clientele. In contrast, the upcoming Microsoft Build event in May is expected to feature announcements more geared towards the general consumer audience. In the meantime, here is a comprehensive overview of the key highlights from the Surface event.
1. Integration of Copilot in Microsoft 365 with Windows Platform
The major highlight of the event was the integration of Copilot functionalities from Microsoft 365 into the Windows platform. This integration marks a significant advancement for professionals as they can now access Copilot within the Windows interface by selecting the “Work” option, facilitating seamless utilization of Copilot within Microsoft 365 applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
The incorporation of Copilot in Microsoft 365 revolutionizes workflows by offering comprehensive assistance across various applications, ranging from creating presentations in PowerPoint to enhancing writing and interpreting spreadsheet data. Essentially, Copilot leverages the user’s work data to provide tailored and enhanced support.
2. Enhanced Copilot Accessibility Features in Windows 11
The upcoming Windows 11 preview release at the month’s end will introduce a plethora of new Copilot accessibility features. Users will have the ability to command Copilot to activate the narrator, screen magnifier, adjust text size, or initiate live captions. This functionality empowers users to efficiently manage their device settings, streamlining the process of accessing vital configurations without navigating through multiple tabs.
3. Introduction of AI-Powered Surface PCs for Business
Following the launch of Surface Pro 9 and Surface Laptop 5 two years ago, Microsoft has unveiled the latest iterations—Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6. These new models, being Microsoft’s first hardware release in the AI PC era, have undergone significant upgrades, including a new processor designed to enhance AI capabilities and productivity tasks.
Both models are equipped with the latest Intel Core Ultra (5 or 7) processor featuring a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) to optimize device performance and battery efficiency, particularly during AI-intensive operations. Despite the internal enhancements, the external appearance of the Surface devices remains largely unchanged.
For a detailed overview of the new products’ features, refer to ZDNet’s Senior Reviews Editor Kerry Wan’s comprehensive summary.
4. Introduction of Windows 365 GPU Support
Although not AI-related, the Windows 365 GPU support holds significant potential in enhancing workflows, particularly those involving AI-related tasks. This feature enables users to leverage GPU-accelerated cloud PCs, offering improved graphics performance crucial for demanding tasks like graphic design, image and video editing, and rendering.
The Windows 365 GPU support, currently in preview, addresses the demand from customers seeking GPU access in a Software-as-a-Service solution.
5. Introduction of Copilot Key on Microsoft Devices
A notable addition to the AI PC lineup is the inclusion of a dedicated Copilot key on both the new Surface devices and the accompanying Surface Pro Keyboard. This key provides convenient access to AI assistance. Furthermore, Windows users not equipped with the latest PC or Surface device can still access the feature by clicking the Copilot icon on the Windows 11 taskbar.
