Microsoft puts smarts into Edge and Bing

Microsoft has announced the (preview) release of its AI-powered Bing search engine and Edge browser, available now at Bing.com. The company says it will deliver better search, more complete answers, a new chat experience and the ability to generate content, referring to the new tools as an “AI copilot for the web”.

“AI will fundamentally change every software category, starting with the largest category of all — search,” said Satya Nadella, Chairman and CEO, Microsoft.

“Today, we’re launching Bing and Edge powered by AI copilot and chat, to help people get more from search and the web.”

Microsoft estimates around half of the 10 billion search queries a day go unanswered as users expect search to do things it was not designed for. Search works well for finding a website, but it’s not so useful for answering complex questions or carrying out other tasks.

By bringing search, browsing and chat together in one experience, the organisation promises more relevant search results, complete answers including detailed instructions, and an interactive chat experience that empowers the user to refine and seek more detail.

Bing will even be able to generate content for you, according to Microsoft, including writing an email, preparing for a job interview or compiling a travel itinerary, including sources and references, so you can see links to original material.

The Edge browser has been updated with AI capabilities and a new look, including chat and compose functionalities. You can read all the details on the company’s Bing microsite here.

Image credit: iStock.com/Sompong Lekhawattana