Microsoft Copilot+ Daily news digest, 08-21-2024

Executive summary:

The recent news surrounding Microsoft Copilot+ highlights both the potential benefits and significant concerns associated with this AI-powered platform.

Battery Life is not directly addressed in the current discussions, but the implications of using AI in devices could suggest a need for more efficient power management. As AI applications often require substantial computational resources, the impact on battery life will be a critical factor for users, especially in mobile devices.

System Performance is a focal point, particularly with the introduction of new processors like AMD's Ryzen AI 300 series and Intel's Core Ultra 200 series. These advancements are expected to enhance the performance of AI tasks, which is crucial for the effective functioning of Copilot+. However, the competition between x86 and Arm-based systems raises questions about the overall performance landscape, as x86 processors are predicted to dominate the market significantly.

Hardware developments are promising, with the anticipated growth of Arm-based Copilot+ laptops and the introduction of new processors. However, the disparity in expected sales between x86 and Arm-based systems suggests that while there is innovation, the market may not fully embrace these new hardware solutions, potentially limiting their impact.

Software capabilities of Copilot+ are highlighted as enhancing user creativity and productivity. The ability to summarize information quickly and provide innovative use cases is a strong selling point. However, the complexity of permissions and access rights in existing systems poses challenges that could hinder the software's effectiveness in real-world applications.

Security remains a significant concern, particularly for large enterprises. The potential for inappropriate access to sensitive information and the complexities of data governance are critical issues that could deter companies from fully implementing Copilot+. The discovery of vulnerabilities in Microsoft Copilot Studio further underscores the need for robust security measures to protect sensitive data.

Privacy issues are intertwined with security concerns, as the platform's reliance on data can lead to exposure risks. Companies are urged to improve their data governance practices to mitigate these risks, but the requirement for a clean data environment complicates the implementation of Copilot+.

In summary, while Microsoft Copilot+ presents exciting opportunities for enhancing productivity and creativity through AI, it faces significant hurdles related to security, privacy, and market competition. The balance between leveraging advanced technology and ensuring robust governance and security will be crucial for its success in the enterprise landscape.

Details

AI copilots are getting sidelined over data governance

Key positive aspects of Copilot+ Key concerns related to Copilot+
Enhances user creativity and productivity by leveraging AI capabilities. Security and corporate governance concerns are prevalent among large enterprises.
Some generative AI initiatives have shown great ROI, particularly in customer service applications. Potential for inappropriate access to sensitive information, such as salary data.
Can summarize information quickly, aiding in decision-making processes. Complex permissions and conflicting access rights in existing systems can lead to data exposure.
Offers innovative use cases for businesses willing to adopt AI solutions. Many companies have grounded or restricted Copilot implementations due to security issues.
Encourages companies to improve data governance and observability. Requires a clean data environment and robust security measures to function effectively.

Source: https://www.theregister.com/2024/08/21/microsoftaicopilots/

"Microsoft has a knack for overcomplicating tech into a convoluted mess": We had ChatGPT roast Microsoft as 300,000 Instagram users feel the same heat

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/we-had-chatgpt-roast-microsoft-as-instagram-users-feel-the-heat

I've tested 5 Copilot+ PCs — 3 things I like and 3 things I don't

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/i-ve-tested-5-copilot-pcs-3-things-i-like-and-3-things-i-don-t/ar-AA1oz3s8?ocid=BingNewsVerp

Americas Partner Skilling News: August 2024 Issue

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/americas-partner-blog/2024/08/20/americas-partner-skilling-news-august-2024-issue/

Crayon announces a new U.S. roadshow in partnership with Microsoft

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://www.martechcube.com/crayon-announces-a-new-u-s-roadshow-in-partnership-with-microsoft/?noamp=mobile

Tenable research discovers critical vulnerability in Microsoft Copilot Studio

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://www.expresscomputer.in/news/tenable-research-discovers-critical-vulnerability-in-microsoft-copilot-studio/115224/

US government to get AI-powered boost with Microsoft Copilot in October 2024

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://www.cryptopolitan.com/us-government-to-get-ai-powered-boost/

How to run Microsoft Copilot on older versions of Windows — including XP, Windows 7, and Vista

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://betanews.com/2024/08/20/how-to-run-microsoft-copilot-on-older-versions-of-windows-including-xp-windows-7-and-vista/

Analyst predicts: x86-based AI PC laptop shipments to skyrocket 17,000% in 2025, Arm just 553%

Key positive aspects of Copilot+ Key concerns related to Copilot+
Arm-based Copilot+ AI PCs are expected to see significant growth, with a forecast of 5.2 million units sold in 2025. x86-based AI PC processors from AMD and Intel are predicted to dominate the market, with 34.2 million units expected in 2025.
Qualcomm's Snapdragon X series processor powers the first waves of Copilot+ laptops, indicating strong partnerships. The article suggests that the hype around Arm-based Copilot+ laptops may not translate into sales success compared to x86 counterparts.
AMD's new Ryzen AI 300 series "Strix Point" APUs are Copilot+ ready, enhancing performance for AI tasks. Intel's current-gen processors have not sold millions of units, raising concerns about their market competitiveness.
Microsoft is committed to releasing more Arm-based Surface laptops, contributing to the expected sales growth. The forecast predicts a stark contrast in shipments between x86 and Arm-based AI PCs, with x86 expected to vastly outnumber Arm.
The introduction of next-generation Intel Core Ultra 200 series "Lunar Lake" processors promises improved AI performance. The article implies that the future of Arm-based Copilot+ laptops may be uncertain in the face of strong x86 competition.

Source: https://www.tweaktown.com/news/100032/analyst-predicts-x86-based-ai-pc-laptop-shipments-to-skyrocket-17-000-in-2025-arm-just-553/index.html

The US government version of Copilot for Microsoft 365 now has an October 2024 launch date

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://www.neowin.net/news/the-us-government-version-of-copilot-for-microsoft-365-now-has-an-october-2024-launch-date/