It’s been a long time since Redmond put together an event that focused fully on enriching ecosystems. This is more so when Microsoft CEO, Satya Nadella, shares how intelligence is now a primary platform enabler. That is the key message throughout his Microsoft Build 2018 keynote; in summary, he shares how Microsoft is now concentrating on artificial intelligence (AI).
“The era of the Intelligent Cloud and Intelligent Edge is upon us,” says Nadella. “These advancements create incredible developer opportunities for enriching ecosystems; the move also comes with the responsibility to ensure the technology we build is trustworthy and will benefit all.”
For Nadella, walking the talk is just as critical; in fact, he did just that by introducing new AI offerings during his keynote. First up, making the concept accessible to all. In reflection of Microsoft’s commitment to developing responsible AI products and practices, it put together a five-year programme. Its name: AI for Accessibility; its purpose: harness the power of AI to amplify human capabilities for more than 1 billion people with disabilities. The cost estimation plays at the tune of US$25 million.
The program comprises grants, technology investments, and expertise from various industries. Of course, these innovations will be a critical aspect to Microsoft Cloud services. While this initiative is seemingly new, it also builds on the success of the similar AI for Earth initiative.
What Nadella introduces does not encompass one specific area of focus for Redmond. It is all part of a bigger narrative, one that will not just drive AI to greater heights of innovation; it will change the fundamentals of engaging AI and how one can leverage on it.
Simply put, the world is a computer and Microsoft wants to wants to create new and rich computing experiences. With AI, obviously. It’s not all about development – there are other considerations like cyber-security, ethical use of AI, and managing privacy.
“Other industry trends will also pair up with AI and accelerate them all. Machine Learning, Cognitive Intelligence, Virtual Reality, Multi-Sense and Multi-Device platforms, Speech Recognition, and Blockchain – all will feature AI,” Nadella shares.
These innovations are just the surface of what Microsoft is expecting to share throughout Microsoft Build 2018.
