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Microsoft Says It Will Protect Customers from AI Copyright Lawsuits

Leave a Comment / Artificial Intellegence, Microsoft, News, Tech News / By Sandhya Gupta

In response to growing concerns about the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) in generating harmful content, Microsoft has pledged to take significant steps to protect its customers from potential legal repercussions.

This commitment comes as Australia is set to implement a new code that mandates search engines like Google and Bing to prevent the dissemination of child sexual abuse material created by AI.

The new code, drafted at the Australian government’s request, seeks to ensure that search engines do not return results that include AI-generated child sexual abuse material. It also prohibits AI functions integrated into these search engines from producing synthetic versions of such harmful content, commonly referred to as deepfakes.

According to e-Safety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant, the rapid proliferation of generative AI has taken the world by surprise. She emphasized that the code signifies a crucial development in the regulatory and legal landscape surrounding internet platforms. This landscape is evolving in response to the explosion of products that automatically generate lifelike content, presenting new challenges and responsibilities for tech giants like Google and Microsoft.

Inman Grant highlighted that an earlier code proposed by Google and Microsoft did not address AI-generated content adequately. Consequently, she called upon these industry giants to reevaluate and improve the code to align with the emerging AI landscape.

“When the biggest players in the industry announced they would integrate generative AI into their search functions, we had a draft code that was clearly no longer fit for purpose. We asked the industry to have another go,” Inman Grant explained.

Microsoft’s commitment to protecting its customers from AI-generated content reflects its dedication to responsible AI development and its recognition of the evolving legal and ethical concerns associated with AI. As a responsible tech leader, Microsoft is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s response to these challenges.

This development comes on the heels of the Australian regulator registering safety codes for various other internet services, including social media, smartphone applications, and equipment providers. These codes are set to take effect in late 2023, marking a significant milestone in Australia’s efforts to ensure online safety and security.

While this regulatory initiative is a positive step towards addressing the risks posed by AI-generated content, it also raises questions about privacy and the balance between security and personal freedoms. The regulator is still in the process of developing safety codes related to internet storage and private messaging services, an endeavor that has faced resistance from privacy advocates worldwide.

In conclusion, Microsoft’s commitment to protecting its users from AI-generated harmful content is a proactive response to evolving challenges in the digital landscape. As technology continues to advance, it is imperative for industry leaders to collaborate with regulators and stakeholders to establish responsible guidelines and practices for the responsible use of AI.

Sandhya Gupta

I am a law graduate from NLU Lucknow. I have a flair for creative writing and hence in my free time work as a freelance content writer.

Microsoft to discontinue Azure Kinect DK; know how you can still get it?

Leave a Comment / Microsoft, News, Tech News / By Sandhya Gupta

In a move that has taken many in the tech community by surprise, Microsoft has announced the discontinuation of the Azure Kinect Developer Kit (DK). This decision marks the end of an era for a device that has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing AI vision solutions over the years.

The journey of the Kinect technology has been nothing short of remarkable. First introduced by Microsoft in 2010, it gained immense popularity as a motion-sensing input device for gaming. However, after halting its production in 2017, Microsoft surprised the industry by relaunching it in 2019 as the Azure Kinect DK. This reimagined version catered to the enterprise sector, offering a connected depth camera that served as the cornerstone for creating AI-powered visual solutions.

Equipped with a depth sensor, a high-definition 4K camera, and an array of seven highly sensitive microphones, the Azure Kinect DK empowered developers to create applications that harnessed the potential of AI and depth sensing technology. Despite its immense capabilities, Microsoft has now made the decision to discontinue the product, leaving users to explore alternative options.

While the discontinuation of the Azure Kinect DK is a disappointment for many, Microsoft has assured users that they can continue using their existing developer kits without any disruptions. For those who have yet to experience the power of the Azure Kinect DK and wish to do so, there is a limited window of opportunity. Microsoft has confirmed that the product will be available in the market until the end of October, or until stocks last. During this time, interested parties can still acquire the device and benefit from the standard limited hardware warranty provided by Microsoft.

Recognizing the importance of the technology behind the Azure Kinect DK, Microsoft has forged partnerships with several hardware manufacturers. These partners have been granted licenses for Microsoft’s indirect time-of-flight (iToF) depth sensing technology, ensuring that the capabilities of the Azure Kinect DK live on.

Also Read: ‘ChatGPT Does 80% Of My Job’ — How AI Enables People To Work Second And Third Jobs

Analog Devices, a key partner, has been entrusted with the license for Microsoft’s pixel and sensor technology. This enables them to process raw sensor data and generate depth maps, carrying forward the legacy of the Azure Kinect DK’s depth sensing capabilities. Similarly, global sensor solutions manufacturer SICK A.G. and 3D depth camera specialist Orbbec have also secured licenses to incorporate iToF depth technology into their offerings.

In conclusion, while the discontinuation of the Azure Kinect DK might mark the end of one chapter, it certainly opens up new possibilities. Whether you’re an existing user looking to make the most of your device or an enthusiast seeking alternatives, the legacy of the Azure Kinect DK’s technology continues through licensed partners. The future of AI-powered vision solutions remains bright, with Microsoft’s commitment to innovation and collaboration at its core.

Sandhya Gupta

I am a law graduate from NLU Lucknow. I have a flair for creative writing and hence in my free time work as a freelance content writer.

Microsoft signs agreement to keep Call of Duty on PlayStation

Leave a Comment / News, Tech News / By Suhani Jain

Microsoft stated on Sunday that Sony and Microsoft have reached a legally enforceable agreement that would keep Call of Duty available on PlayStation gaming platforms when the Activision Blizzard purchase is completed.

“We are pleased to announce that Microsoft and PlayStation have signed a binding agreement to keep Call of Duty on PlayStation following the acquisition of Activision Blizzard,” Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer said on Twitter Sunday.
Source: cnbc.com

The Call of Duty series, which is the most popular, is produced by Activision. If an Activision merger was authorized, regulators from every corner of the world have raised serious concerns about Microsoft’s potential dominance of the gaming industry.

Concerns that Microsoft might be allowed to develop games “private” to its systems and eliminate Sony from rivalry arose from the simple fact that Microsoft produces the Xbox, which is directly competing with Sony’s PlayStation.

Even though Microsoft and Sony aren’t specifying the term of the arrangement, the pact helps to some extent to allay such worries. A Microsoft representative said the agreement was set up for the long haul. Similar agreements have already been made by the business.

Also Read: Roblox beta comes to Meta’s Quest VR headsets

Jim Ryan, the chief executive officer of Sony’s interactive entertainment section, has expressed worries about anti-competitive conduct. Ryan, whose holdings comprise PlayStation, stated he believed that the suggested Activision Blizzard purchase would hurt competitiveness in the videogame industry recorded in a videotape in June.

Brad Smith, vice president of Microsoft, stated on Twitter on Sunday that regardless of when a prospective merger closes,

Microsoft “will remain focused on ensuring that Call of Duty remains available on more platforms and for more consumers than ever before.”
Source: cnbc.com

The merger may not go through, but Microsoft and Activision’s chances are much stronger now that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) won’t be able to temporarily postpone the transaction. In July, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit in the federal court of San Francisco to block the transaction but was unable to persuade the jury that the merger would represent a significant anti-competitive threat.

The agreement was approved by the European Union’s regulatory bodies in May. The UK’s Competition and Markets Agency, which is which has compelled divestitures and halted other tech transactions, declared on Wednesday that it was ready to speak with Microsoft about the conditions of the transaction.

Suhani Jain

I am a student pursuing my bachelor’s in information technology. I have a interest in writing so, I am working a freelance content writer because I enjoy writing. I also write poetries. I believe in the quote by anne frank “paper has more patience than person

Has Xbox really lost the console wars?

Leave a Comment / Story, Tech Story / By Sandhya Gupta

Microsoft recently made statements in a legal filing indicating that it believes “Xbox has lost the console wars” and that Sony and Nintendo are poised to continue dominating the gaming market for years to come.

These remarks were presented as part of Microsoft’s defense in an ongoing trial with regulators in the United States, following the FTC’s lawsuit to block Microsoft’s planned acquisition of Activision Blizzard in December.

The proposed $69 billion buyout of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft would be the largest acquisition in gaming industry history, surpassing Take-Two’s purchase of Zynga by $57 billion.

However, Sony and regulators have consistently voiced concerns about the potential concentration of power in the gaming industry if the acquisition were to proceed. In response, Microsoft has argued that the move would actually level the playing field rather than consolidate power.

Microsoft’s legal filing reveals that Xbox currently holds only 16% of console sales and a slightly higher share of the global console install base as of 2021. The company admits that it has been the least successful console manufacturer in terms of sales for the majority of the past 22 years.

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Microsoft even acknowledges that Sony’s gamer base in the US is currently larger than its own, although the exact difference has been redacted from the court documents.

The filing goes on to state that Microsoft believes aggressive acquisition strategies, such as the proposed Activision Blizzard deal, are necessary for Xbox to effectively compete with its Japanese rivals.

It specifically points to Sony and Nintendo’s ability to leverage exclusive content as a key factor in their ongoing dominance of the global gaming market. Microsoft previously made a similar argument to UK regulators in late 2022, conceding that PlayStation has better exclusives than Xbox.

While the outcome of the ongoing trial with the FTC remains uncertain, it is worth noting that the agency does not have the authority to outright block the Activision Blizzard acquisition. The UK’s rejection of the proposed deal, which Microsoft is currently appealing, poses a more substantial obstacle to the acquisition.

In summary, Microsoft’s legal argument in the ongoing trial suggests a recognition of the current state of the console market and the challenges Xbox faces in competing with Sony and Nintendo.

The company acknowledges its lower market share and emphasizes the importance of strategic acquisitions to level the playing field. Whether these arguments will be successful in the trial and ultimately impact the Activision Blizzard acquisition remains to be seen.

Sandhya Gupta

I am a law graduate from NLU Lucknow. I have a flair for creative writing and hence in my free time work as a freelance content writer.

Why Microsoft wants to move Windows fully to the cloud?

Leave a Comment / Story, Tech Story / By Sandhya Gupta

Microsoft is making significant strides in moving Windows to the cloud, not only for commercial use but also for consumers.

Internal documents revealed in the ongoing FTC v. Microsoft hearing shed light on the company’s plans to leverage its Windows 365 service to stream a full version of the Windows operating system from the cloud to any device.

The presentation, dated June 2022, highlights Microsoft’s long-term goal of shifting Windows 11 towards cloud-based deployment, offering enhanced AI-powered services and seamless digital experiences across devices.

Windows 365, which currently caters exclusively to commercial customers, is being deeply integrated into Windows 11. In an upcoming update, Microsoft plans to introduce Windows 365 Boot, allowing Windows 11 devices to directly log into a Cloud PC instance during boot, bypassing the local version of Windows.

Additionally, Windows 365 Switch will be incorporated into Windows 11’s Task View, enabling users to seamlessly switch between local and cloud-based virtual desktops.

Also Read: Why are Facebook and Instagram ending news access in Canada?

The idea of transitioning Windows to the cloud for consumers is coupled with Microsoft’s interest in forging custom silicon partnerships. The company has already ventured into this realm with its ARM-powered Surface Pro X devices.

Reports suggest that Microsoft has explored designing its own ARM-based processors for servers and possibly even for Surface devices. Furthermore, rumors indicate that Microsoft may be developing its own AI chips.

The presentation emphasizes the importance of solidifying the commercial value of Windows and responding to the threat posed by Chromebooks. One avenue to achieve this is by increasing the usage of cloud PCs through Windows 365.

In line with its AI-focused approach, Microsoft recently announced Windows Copilot, an AI-powered assistant for Windows 11. Windows Copilot resides alongside the operating system and offers features such as content summarization, rewriting, and explanations. Currently undergoing internal testing, Windows Copilot is set to be released to testers in June before being made available to all Windows 11 users.

Windows Copilot is just one aspect of Microsoft’s broader AI initiatives for Windows. Collaborations with AMD and Intel aim to enable more Windows features on next-generation CPUs. Speculation surrounding Windows 12 has been fueled by hints from Intel and Microsoft themselves.

At CES earlier this year, Panos Panay, the Windows chief, expressed his belief that AI will revolutionize the way users interact with Windows. The internal presentation emphasizes Microsoft’s commitment to incorporating improved AI-powered services into Windows to fulfill its ambitious vision.

In conclusion, Microsoft’s internal presentation reveals its intentions to advance the cloud-based deployment of Windows, both for commercial and consumer use. With Windows 365 as a foundation, the company seeks to leverage the power of the cloud and AI to provide enhanced services and seamless experiences across devices.

By expanding its custom silicon partnerships and exploring AI-focused developments, Microsoft aims to strengthen the value of Windows and address competitive challenges while empowering users with innovative features and capabilities.

Sandhya Gupta

I am a law graduate from NLU Lucknow. I have a flair for creative writing and hence in my free time work as a freelance content writer.

Microsoft notches record high valuation of nearly $2.6 trillion

Leave a Comment / News, Tech News / By Suhani Jain

Since public enthusiasm over the potential of AI (artificial intelligence) has contributed to lifting the tech conglomerate to a peak market value of 2.59 trillion dollars, Microsoft Corp stocks went up to a new all-time high finish on Thursday.

Because of its substantial funding in OpenAI, which is based in San Francisco that created the hugely successful chatbot ChatGPT, Microsoft has been recognized as a leader in the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in the software industry.

To compete with Google, owned by Alphabet Inc., Microsoft started releasing several AI enhancements, such as ChatGPT, the company’s Bing search engine, and Azure cloud services within the past month.

Also Read: LinkedIn to test ad product for video streaming services

On Thursday, Microsoft’s prices increased 3.2 percent and closed at 348.10 dollars for each share. The price of the stock, which has increased by more than 45 percent so far this year, hit its previous record close of 343.11 USD on November 19, 2021. On November 22, 2021, the share’s intraday highest level ever was 349.67 USD.

Additionally, on Thursday, the stock of Apple Inc. closed at a record high of 186.01 USD, while those of the manufacturer of graphics chips Nvidia hit a brand-new intraday record of 432.89 USD.

The increasing demand for Microsoft’s items is being driven by AI, according to JPMorgan experts who increased their price objective on the business’s stock sooner on Thursday. Following data from Refinitiv, 44 of the 53 experts that follow Microsoft suggested purchasing the stock, with a consensus price objective of $340.

“We reaffirm our bullish-outlier viewpoint on generative AI and continue to see it driving a resurgence of confidence in key software franchises,” JPMorgan analysts wrote in a note to clients.
Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com

On June 5, the Microsoft 365 software suite, which includes Teams and Outlook, was unavailable for over two hours to over a thousand customers, with a brief reappearance the next morning. For Microsoft, it was their fourth of these events in a calendar year.

Also Read: Why is Microsoft Teams integration being removed from Win11?

Microsoft has claimed that cyberattacks were to blame for the outages that the firm had during some of the first days of this month, but it claimed that there was no proof that any information about clients had been obtained or compromised.

“Beginning in early June 2023, Microsoft identified surges in traffic against some services that temporarily impacted availability'” the company said in a blog post.
Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com

Suhani Jain

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