Artificial Intelligence Integration Catching Windows Users Unaware, Initially Limited to Snapdragon X-Equipped Devices (Microsoft)
Modernizing Windows with AI: Microsoft is taking Windows' AI game to the next level, introducing a slew of autonomous features via an AI agent slated for release "within the coming weeks" (via Bleeping Computer). This means saying goodbye to old-school menus dating back to Windows NT? Maybe, but let's not hold our breath.
At the forefront for users is a new AI agent to assist with Windows settings. According to Microsoft, "Why fumble through typo-filled settings menus when you can simply describe the change you need and watch it materialize?" While we'll have to actually try it to be sure, Microsoft assures that this will soon be a reality.
"This agent uses on-device AI to decipher your wishes and, with your approval, tackles tasks. Want help adjusting voice control or enlarging your mouse pointer? Just tell the agent and, with your consent, it’ll guide you through the necessary steps or handle it all for you!"
Curiously, the update will debut on Snapdragon-powered PCs initially. Microsoft remains tight-lipped about when x86 PCs will join the party, simply promising that the delights are "coming soon."
Whether this AI agent will spell the end of laborious settings menus is up for debate. While it may automate more frequently used settings within easy reach, it's unlikely that ancient submenus from the '90s will become obsolete.
Alongside the settings agent, there's a fresh "Click to Do" feature, offering functions such as text extraction from images, summarizing text, or object removal from images. This aims to streamline tasks by bringing actions directly into your workflow.
The Photos app also receives an AI upgrade, with the introduction of the "relight" feature. This grant users dynamic control over image lighting by allowing them to position up to three virtual light sources, adjusting their color, and focusing a point followed by automatic light adjustment.
For quick edits, there are built-in presets that enable one-click application of ready-made lighting styles. Like the AI agent, it will first be available on Snapdragon-powered PCs, with support for AMD- and Intel-powered devices set to follow later in the year.
Microsoft also unveiled a cartoon sticker generator and object selection in Paint, as well as an AI-enhanced Snipping Tool. This tool boasts an understanding of user intent, enabling precise screen grabs without the need for meticulous cropping. It also offers automatic text extraction and color sampling from anywhere on screen.
The update sees numerous other AI features being rolled out, which you can delve into here (MS Power User). Just don't forget that rogue AI is all fun and games until your PC starts rebelling against your commands, even if you're careful with your commands...
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Written by Jeremy LairdJeremy's tech writing career began in the 90nm Netburst era, and his fascination with the intricacies of monitor input lag and overshoot persists. When he's not obsessing over advanced lithography, he indulges in tennis and fast cars.
- The AI agent, set to assist with Windows settings, will decipher user wishes and, with approval, handle tasks such as adjusting voice control or enlarging the mouse pointer.
- Microsoft's new feature, "Click to Do," aims to simplify tasks by offering functions like text extraction and object removal, bringing actions directly into users' workflow.
- The Photos app's AI upgrade provides the "relight" feature, enabling users to control image lighting with virtual light sources, a feature initially available on Snapdragon-powered PCs.
- Among the various AI enhancements, the AI-enhanced Snipping Tool understands user intent, allowing precise screen grabs and automatic text extraction, similar to playing a strategic game of cards with the right technology and good luck on your side.
