Microsoft and Google: Advancements in AI

Introduction

Microsoft and Google are now integrating AI into every single one of their products, from search engines to productivity apps. In this blog, we will explore the most recent advancements in AI from these two major technology companies and how they are striving to outperform each other by providing superior AI features to their users.

Microsoft's Bing AI Chatbot

Microsoft's Bing AI chatbot has been available online since February, but it only works for Microsoft's own browser, Edge. However, Microsoft is now preparing to expand Bing AI support to other browsers such as Safari and Chrome. This move aims to increase the market share of the search engine and explore new ways to push users to Edge via Bing. In addition to expanding support, Microsoft is teasing some big Bing AI updates. These updates could make Bing even more engaging and useful. Microsoft is considering new AI tool recommendations and a dedicated community platform for users to interact, discuss, and learn about AI.

Character Updates

One of the potential updates is the support for characters with personalities in Bing AI. This would allow Bing to mimic human-like personalities as part of the character update. Microsoft aims to create a more engaging experience for users. Furthermore, Microsoft plans to reduce limitations and increase flexibility, performance, and reliability in Bing chat. These enhancements will improve the speed, accuracy, and consistency of AI functions.

Plugin Support and Windows Co-Pilot

Bing is also expected to gain support for plugins in a future release. This was confirmed at the 2023 developer conference, where Microsoft announced Bing-powered Windows co-pilot for Windows 11. By deeply integrating Bing into the operating system, Microsoft aims to significantly improve its market share.

Google's Generative AI in Workspace Apps

Google has been using AI to make its products more helpful and smart for a long time. For example, Gmail and Docs have features like smart compose and smart reply that suggest phrases based on your context and style. In March 2023, Google introduced a first set of AI-powered writing features in Docs and Gmail to trusted testers. These features use generative AI to help users create content from scratch or refine existing content.

AI in Docs

In Docs, users can now type in a topic and have Workspace help them go from a blank page to a first draft. Generative AI can also be used to summarize long documents or generate smart chips that link relevant information. This feature aims to make writing easier and faster while respecting privacy and data governance.

AI in Gmail

In Gmail, generative AI can help users write professional emails with context-based suggestions for tone, style, and grammar. It can also convert meeting notes into polished emails with just a few clicks. These features are designed to improve writing efficiency and creativity while prioritizing user privacy and data governance.

AI in Slides

Google's generative AI is also used in Slides to help users bring their creative vision to life. The "Help Me Visualize" feature suggests relevant images, icons, charts, diagrams, or videos based on the user's input. This feature saves time and effort in searching for visuals and helps communicate ideas effectively to the audience.

Using "Help Me Visualize" in Slides

To use the "Help Me Visualize" feature in Google Slides, follow these steps:

1. Open a new or existing presentation in Google Slides.
2. Click on the "Help Me Visualize" button on the top right corner of the screen. This will open a sidebar.
3. Type in a phrase or sentence that describes what you want to visualize.
4. As you type, generative AI will suggest relevant visuals. Scroll through the suggestions and click on the ones you like.
5. The selected visual will be inserted automatically. You can resize, crop, rotate, or edit it as desired.
6. Repeat the process for each slide to create a visually stunning presentation.

The "Help Me Visualize" feature may not always provide the best suggestions for every topic and may have some limitations. However, Google is continuously working to improve this feature and make it more accessible for everyone.

AI Dominance Race: Microsoft vs Google

In the race for AI dominance, both Microsoft and Google have announced plans for AI-enhanced search capabilities. Currently, Microsoft seems to have an advantage over Google. Microsoft's application of OpenAI's chat GPT technology in enhancing Bing and Edge has driven considerable public interest and positive feedback. On the other hand, Google's chatbot Bard experienced setbacks during its demonstration, resulting in a drop in Alphabet's market value. However, the race is expected to be a long one, and the current standing may shift over time.

Your Opinion

What are your thoughts on the AI transition happening with Google and Microsoft? Which company do you think is better positioned? Share your opinion in the comments below.

Conclusion

Microsoft and Google are constantly advancing their AI capabilities to provide superior features to their users. Microsoft's Bing AI chatbot is expanding its support to other browsers, teasing updates that aim to enhance user engagement and usefulness. Google's generative AI in Workspace apps like Docs, Gmail, and Slides is helping users create content more efficiently while respecting privacy and data governance. The race for AI dominance between these two tech giants is ongoing, and it will be interesting to see how their AI advancements unfold in the future.

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