Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) is set to launch Microsoft 365 Copilot, an advanced artificial intelligence (AI) assistant capable of summarising meetings and generating emails and presentations.
While the software giant aims to eliminate "drudgery" in office tasks, critics argue that such technology could displace workers and make businesses overly reliant on AI.
Copilot uses the technology that also powers ChatGPT, a company in which Microsoft has invested billions of dollars.
According to Collette Stallbaumer, head of Microsoft 365, "It is a tool, and people have responsibility to use it responsibly." Stallbaumer further emphasised that "the human is always in the mix and always in control."
???? Microsoft 365 Copilot will be generally available for Enterprise customers on November 1.Learn more about today's Microsoft 365 Copilot announcements and the future of productivity: https://t.co/ZAGRQGQm47 #MicrosoftEvent
— Microsoft 365 (@Microsoft365) September 21, 2023
Regulatory scrutiny
However, regulatory scrutiny over AI tools like Copilot is intensifying.
The European Union's AI Act and China's AI regulations require firms to inform users when they are interacting with AI rather than humans.
"It is up to the firms which develop AI tools to ensure they are used responsibly," states the EU regulation.
Carissa Veliz, associate professor at Oxford University, also highlighted the potential risks of over-reliance on such AI systems.
"What happens if the tech fails, or it might be hacked? There might be a glitch, or they might institute new policies that you might not agree with.
And then, if you're so hooked on the system that you feel that you can't do without it anymore, what happens then?" she questioned.
Monthly price tag of US$30
The tool comes with a monthly price tag of US$30 and requires an internet connection to operate.
While some see Copilot as a groundbreaking innovation, others caution that its widespread adoption could lead to significant disruptions in admin-based roles and raise ethical and regulatory dilemmas.
In summary, Microsoft 365 Copilot promises to revolutionise office work by automating a range of tasks.
However, its advent brings to the forefront a host of ethical, regulatory and economic questions that remain to be addressed as it becomes a part of modern work environments.