Microsoft is introducing new enhancements to its Copilot AI assistant, enabling it to perform various online tasks on behalf of users. This functionality, termed “Actions,” allows users to utilize straightforward chat prompts for Copilot to operate in the background while they focus on other responsibilities. According to Microsoft, these Actions can facilitate activities such as making restaurant reservations, purchasing event tickets, and sending gifts to friends.
The launch will feature partnerships with a range of services, including Booking.com, Expedia, Kayak, TripAdvisor, Skyscanner, Viator, Vrbo, and Priceline. These collaborations aim to help users seamlessly plan upcoming trips. Additionally, Open Table will assist with dining reservations, while 1-800-Flowers.com will facilitate the purchase of floral arrangements. Microsoft asserts that the Actions tool will be compatible with most websites, potentially offering functionalities like arranging rides home after events, indicating support for taxi and ride-sharing services.
The new Actions feature is part of a broader rollout of personalization tools, which includes capabilities that convert online content into AI-generated podcasts, tools for finding product deals, and the ability for Copilot to interact with content through the device’s camera. While specific details about the operation of Actions have not been disclosed, it aligns with similar features previously introduced by other AI technology providers.
In March, Amazon introduced its Nova Act AI agent, capable of executing tasks directly within users’ browsers, such as internet searches, online purchases, and providing answers based on on-screen content. OpenAI has developed a similar feature called Operator, while Google is working on Project Mariner. Moreover, Anthropic has recently launched a beta feature in its Claude 3.5 Sonnet AI model, allowing it to autonomously navigate and perform online actions.
While these competing solutions remain largely in early stages of development or limited release, Microsoft is moving forward by rolling out its initial version of Copilot’s Actions feature today. The availability of this feature will expand over the following weeks and months, based on factors such as platform, market, and language. This positions Microsoft as one of the first companies to deliver a task-executing AI service to the general public, potentially setting an early benchmark for the effectiveness and reliability of such AI tools.
