Microsoft’s New GenAI Team Targets Smaller and Cheaper AI Models

K.C. Sabreena Basheer Last Updated : 29 Jan, 2024
2 min read

Microsoft is stepping up its game in the artificial intelligence (AI) landscape, forming a dedicated GenAI team to develop smaller and more cost-effective language models. This move signifies a shift away from dependency on OpenAI’s technology, a notable change in Microsoft’s approach to AI development.

Also Read: Microsoft Introduces SliceGPT For Compressing LLMs

The GenAI Initiative

Microsoft is spearheading an initiative to create more compact AI models, challenging the status quo set by OpenAI’s offerings. This newly established GenAI team is laser-focused on developing conversational AI that demands lower processing power compared to existing technologies.

Also Read: Cognizant and Microsoft Unveil AI-Driven Innovation Assistant

Microsoft's New GenAI Team Targets Smaller, Cheaper AI Models

Leadership and Team Dynamics

Headed by Microsoft’s Corporate Vice President, Misha Bilenko, the GenAI team comprises top developers reassigned from the research group. This strategic move highlights Microsoft’s commitment to developing in-house solutions, potentially reducing reliance on external entities.

Breaking the Dependency

Historically, Microsoft heavily leaned on OpenAI for AI advancements, integrating technologies like GPT-4 into products such as Bing Chat and Bing AI Image Creator. The GenAI team’s objective is to carve out a more independent path, signaling Microsoft’s determination to control its AI destiny.

Also Read: EU Launches Probe into Microsoft-OpenAI Collaboration

Microsoft builds new GenAI team to break dependency on OpenAI

Microsoft’s AI Expansion

In a parallel development, Microsoft recently introduced Copilot Pro, a subscription service offering users access to advanced AI features, including the latest language models such as OpenAI’s GPT-4 Turbo. The company is expanding its AI presence with offerings like Copilot for Microsoft 365, catering to enterprise customers.

Also Read: Vodafone and Microsoft Forge $1.5 Billion Decade-Long AI and IoT Partnership

Our Say

Microsoft’s strategic move to develop smaller and more cost-effective AI models aligns with industry trends. The GenAI initiative not only reflects a desire for self-sufficiency but also positions Microsoft as a formidable player in the evolving AI landscape. The company’s focus on practical applications, such as the Copilot subscriptions, demonstrates a commitment to making AI accessible and impactful for users.

As Microsoft ventures into the realm of smaller language models, the tech giant aims to revolutionize the AI sector. The GenAI team’s efforts, led by Misha Bilenko, underscore Microsoft’s commitment to innovation and self-reliance. This move holds the potential to reshape the dynamics of the Microsoft-OpenAI partnership, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of AI technologies.

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Sabreena Basheer is an architect-turned-writer who's passionate about documenting anything that interests her. She's currently exploring the world of AI and Data Science as a Content Manager at Analytics Vidhya.

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