Microsoft is gearing up for a special artificial intelligence (AI) event scheduled for May 20, preceding its Build 2024 developer conference. This event, to be led by CEO Satya Nadella, will focus on Microsoft’s AI vision across hardware and software.
Unlike typical live-streamed events, the May 20 gathering will be exclusive, limited to journalists who have received invitations from Microsoft. Nadella emphasized AI’s potential impact, highlighting its transformative role in human-technology and human-robot interactions.
The event is anticipated to unveil AI features for Windows and select Surface devices. While a recent event on March 21 introduced business-focused AI features for Windows 11 and Surface devices, the May event is expected to reveal consumer-oriented products like the Surface Laptop 6 and Surface Pro 10.
These devices are rumored to feature Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processors, incorporating specialized neural processing units for enhanced AI-driven operations on Windows 11.
On the software front, Microsoft may introduce the “AI Explorer,” leveraging generative AI to enable Windows 11 users to search for past actions, akin to the deprecated Timeline feature on Windows 10.
Microsoft has declared 2024 as “the year of the AI PC,” with hardware partners like Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm poised to embrace AI technology. However, Microsoft has yet to detail how Windows will leverage recent hardware advancements.
During the recent HP Amplify Partner Conference, Nadella discussed AI’s revolutionary potential with HP CEO Enrique Lores. Additionally, Microsoft plans to share more information about its AI programs, possibly including updates on Copilot.
The last Surface event occurred in September 2023, unveiling devices like the Surface Laptop Studio 2, Surface Laptop Go 3, and Surface Go 4. With the upcoming AI event, Microsoft aims to further solidify its position at the forefront of AI innovation in both hardware and software.
