Enriching the plugin ecosystem: AI plugins updates at Microsoft Build 2023

"Think of plugins as a bridge" - such a simple yet elegant comparison became the starting point for presenting the updates in the plugins ecosystem at Microsoft Build 2023. Now, plugins are becoming even more helpful for developers working with copilots and those utilizing AI. Let’s take a look at the most significant upgrades.?

Shared standard?

To ensure compatibility between ChatGPT and Microsoft's copilot offerings, the company adopted the open plugin standard offered by OpenAI. With this advancement, developers now have the convenience of using a unified platform to create plugins that function seamlessly across various consumer and business platforms, such as ChatGPT, Bing, Dynamics 365 Copilot (in preview), and Microsoft 365 Copilot (in preview). ?

Plugins for copilots' development?

An AI development framework that guides makers in building their own copilots now includes support for plugins. These plugins become bridges between a large language model and a website or back-end system that a company uses. Plugins enable the capabilities of AI systems to retrieve real-time information, incorporate company or other business data, perform new types of computations, and safely take action on the user’s behalf.?

Plugins expand the functionality of copilots by enabling seamless interaction with various software and services. Microsoft is introducing a range of features to streamline the development of cross-platform plugins for its copilot solutions. Developers will find it effortless to create, debug, and deploy new plugins using Visual Studio Code, GitHub Copilot, and GitHub Codespaces. Additionally, Azure AI will provide capabilities for running and testing plugins on confidential enterprise data. These plugins, once developed, will seamlessly integrate into Microsoft's copilot experience.?

Bing plugins support?

Bing ecosystem, as a part of this shared plugin platform, is expanding its support for plugins. It was previously announced that plugins for OpenTable and Wolfram Alpha were incorporated. Now, Microsoft has added plugins for Expedia, Instacart, Kayak, Klarna, Redfin, and Zillow as well. It means that Bing offers built-in chat plugins for both desktop and mobile platforms, allowing it to provide recommendations based on your conversation. For example, you can utilize the OpenTable plugin to inquire about restaurants or related subjects. The plugin from Kayak will function as a virtual travel companion, offering assistance and guidance. And by using Redfin in Bing Chat, you can describe your desired home using everyday language, and the platform will locate listings that match your requirements.?

Thus, Microsoft's updates at Build 2023 introduce a shared plugin standard, ensuring compatibility across various platforms. These plugins serve as vital bridges, connecting different software and services, and expanding the functionality of copilots.?