At Ignite 2024, Microsoft unveiled an exciting development for Microsoft 365 users: AI agents designed to simplify your workload. These intelligent tools can assist with everyday tasks, from answering basic questions to managing multi-step projects. The aim is clear—boost your productivity while saving you time and money.
These AI agents are tailored with specific knowledge to collaborate with you or independently manage tasks, making them a powerful addition to Microsoft 365’s capabilities. Here’s a breakdown of the new features you can start exploring.
SharePoint agents: instant insights at your fingertips
SharePoint, one of Microsoft’s most popular apps, is now equipped with AI agents to help you access information quickly. Each SharePoint site comes with a pre-built agent that understands the site’s content, providing real-time answers without requiring additional setup.
For instance, if you’re a new hire, the agent can guide you through onboarding materials, ensuring you get up to speed swiftly. Businesses can also create customised agents with just a few clicks. You can build an agent tailored to particular projects or tasks by selecting specific files, folders, or sites.
Starting today, SharePoint agents are generally available as part of the Microsoft 365 Copilot licence. If your organisation is set up for Microsoft Copilot Studio’s consumption billing, this feature will soon be accessible pay-as-you-go.
Teams agents: better collaboration and communication
Microsoft Teams is getting a significant boost with two new AI agents: the Facilitator and the Interpreter.
The Facilitator agent, available today, acts as a real-time assistant in meetings and chats. It takes notes during discussions, tracks key decisions, and logs action items so you can focus on the conversation. Keeping an up-to-date summary as meetings progress is ideal for more productive collaboration. You’ll need a Microsoft 365 Copilot licence to try the public preview.
The Interpreter agent, set to arrive in early 2025, will break down language barriers. It offers real-time speech-to-speech interpretation in nine languages: Mandarin, English, French, German, and Spanish. This feature is handy for international teams, allowing seamless communication in your preferred language. Like the Facilitator, accessing the Interpreter will require a Microsoft 365 Copilot licence once it enters public preview.
Project Manager agent: simplifying task management
The new Project Manager agent is a game-changer for those juggling multiple tasks. Integrated with Microsoft Planner, it automates project management, creating plans based on your goals and tracking progress. Whether you start from scratch or use a template, the agent assigns tasks, sends reminders, and generates status reports.
This agent aims to streamline project workflows, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks. Customers who hold a Microsoft 365 Copilot licence can access the public preview.
With the introduction of AI agents, Microsoft 365 continues to redefine workplace productivity. Whether you need help managing data, improving collaboration, or organising projects, these AI-powered tools can assist.
By handling repetitive and time-consuming tasks, these agents let you focus on what matters most. As Microsoft expands its AI capabilities, you can expect even more innovations to enhance your daily workflow.
