Microsoft has addressed concerns about how it manages data from its Microsoft 365 programs, which include Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. This comes after reports that user data from these products is being used to train the company’s artificial intelligence (AI) model. These assertions were made in a Tumblr blog post, which indicated that a feature named “Connected Experiences” enabled Microsoft to collect user data for AI training.
Microsoft denied using client data from its 365 consumer and business products to build massive language models. Furthermore, the Connected Services option has little impact on how Microsoft trains huge language models.”
This correction was sent to BleepingComputer on November 27, 2024.
Understanding “Connected Experiences”
Microsoft highlighted the “Connected Experiences” function as a tool for improving productivity inside its programs. The function allows you to co-author papers in real time, get grammatical recommendations, and access web-based resources. It’s been accessible since April 2019 and is enabled by default. However, users can disable it at any moment.
Users can manage the “Connected Experiences” settings by following the procedures below:
Launch a Microsoft 365 application, such as Word or Excel.
Navigate to File > Account > Account Privacy > Manage Settings.
You can enable or disable the associated experiences according to your preferences.
These qualities are widely expected in modern, cloud-connected productivity applications. Examples are PowerPoint Designer, which offers design advice, and Translator, which translates language within documents.
Concerns about privacy and artificial intelligence training
Microsoft noted that, while “Connected Experiences” provides a variety of productivity tools, it does not include generative AI or huge language models. Instead, these features use simple machine learning techniques to perform functions such as spelling and grammatical checks.
Examples of AI-powered capabilities in Microsoft 365 include:
Designer in PowerPoint: A tool for creating visually appealing presentations.
In Word, the editor provides grammatical and writing advice.
These technologies aim to boost creativity and efficiency without relying on client data to train advanced AI models. Furthermore, corporate managers may regulate whether linked experiences are exposed to users within their companies, allowing for more comprehensive management of privacy choices.
Why Does It Matter?
The debate underlines recurring worries about privacy in the age of artificial intelligence. Users frequently express concerns about how their data is gathered and used, especially when complex AI systems are involved. Microsoft hopes to reassure its consumers by explicitly rejecting the usage of customer data for AI training and offering clarity about the function of “Connected Experiences.”
The company’s attempts to clarify its stance highlight the significance of trust and control in technology, especially when dealing with sensitive customer data.
This post is based on a report by Sergiu Gatlan, published on BleepingComputer on November 27, 2024. You can check out the full article here.
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