Microsoft Enlists AI Interior Decorator To Virtually Flip Messy Homes On Teams
Image via Microsoft
Microsoft’s got the solution for you for when you’ve barely had time to wash up before a remote conference, let alone tidy up your home. At the recent Microsoft Ignite conference, the tech giant revealed an array of new AI-driven features, set to enhance virtual collaboration and meetings. Notable among these is the ‘Decorate your Background’ feature in Microsoft Teams.
Slated for release in early 2024 for Teams Premium users, the tool essentially hires artificial intelligence to assume the role of an interior decorator and give your video call backdrop a virtual makeover, sprucing up your real-world space or adding decorative elements like plants.
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As demonstrated in a visual, the feature can “clean up” the visible portion of a room, or even completely overhaul it to look “fancy.” In case you’re working through the holiday season, there’s also a celebration mode.
Before
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After
Image via Microsoft
Another notable development is the introduction of voice isolation technology in Teams. This feature, unique in its ability to filter out other voices, not just background noise, ensures that your voice stands alone in calls and meetings.
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After a quick enrollment, AI will recognize your voice, making it the sole focus in any audio exchange. This feature will be added to Teams Phone and Meetings in early 2024.
Image via Microsoft
On the topic of digitally manicured environments, Microsoft is also delving into virtual reality with Microsoft Mesh, a 3D immersive workplace experience. Mesh enables users to interact in a virtual space that feels as real as being in the same room.
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Key features of immersive spaces in Teams, available from January 2024, include customizable avatars, various 3D environments suitable for different types of meetings, and interactive activities for team bonding. Users can enjoy spatial audio for clear subgroup conversations, live reactions for expressive communication, and the ability to move freely within these virtual spaces.
For event hosts, Microsoft Mesh offers a no-code editor to customize immersive experiences easily. Ready-to-use spaces can be personalized with images, videos, and shared 3D canvases, streamlining the creation of unique events like employee gatherings, training sessions, and product showcases.
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Additionally, Mesh will allow speakers to interact more effectively with attendees during immersive events, incorporating features like hand-raising for Q&A sessions, enhancing engagement, and mimicking real-life town hall experiences.
Image via Microsoft
[via TechCrunch and The Messenger, images via Microsoft]
This article was crafted with assistance from an AI engine, and has been manually reviewed & edited.
