Microsoft has finally responded to allegations that it misused user data to train its artificial intelligence models. On November 27, Microsoft denied allegations that it uses user data from its Microsoft 365 applications, including Word and Excel, to train artificial intelligence models. What exactly led to these accusations? Let’s take a closer look at the situation.
Microsoft denies all accusations
The response came after some users took to social media to call on the tech giant to allow users to opt out of the “connected experience” feature. These users argued that the “connected experience” feature is used to train artificial intelligence models.
In an emailed statement to Reuters, a Microsoft spokesperson said: “These claims are untrue. Microsoft does not use customer data from Microsoft 365 consumer or commercial applications to train fundamental large-scale language models.”
The spokesperson also explained that the “connected experiences” feature enables functionalities such as co-authoring and cloud storage. It has nothing to do with how the company trains its large language models (LLMs).
Other updates
Amidst this controversy, just a few days ago, Microsoft launched a long-awaited AI feature. On November 22, the company introduced this feature in the preview build of Windows 11 for Copilot+ PCs. It is noteworthy that these computers are equipped with Qualcomm processors. The Recall feature acts like a photo memory for your computer.
It allows users to search for documents, programs, websites, or other important files they’ve accessed in the past, even based on fuzzy clues or a timeline of past actions. For example, you can scroll through your digital timeline to find files whose names you might have forgotten. Just give a few hints or keywords related to the file and AI will find it for you.
