Microsoft is making it simpler for business users to create apps and automate tasks with its latest updates to Microsoft 365 Copilot. Now, users can ask the AI assistant to build apps that include dashboards, charts, and interactive features. This is part of a broader move to help workers do more without needing special coding skills.

Creating Apps with a Few Words

The new App Builder tool allows users to create apps quickly by describing what they want in simple words. For example, someone might ask for a “career tracker” app that displays progress toward goals and upcoming events. The AI taps into existing Microsoft 365 content like documents and spreadsheets to help build the app. Users can preview the app, make adjustments, and get suggestions from the AI. Once finished, they can share the app just like sharing a document, with data stored in Microsoft Lists.

This process takes just a few minutes, according to Microsoft. The idea is to give non-developers a way to make useful tools without waiting weeks or hiring developers. The App Builder is similar to other low-code tools gaining popularity, and it’s especially helpful for teams like marketing, sales, or HR. It allows them to create simple, interactive apps without technical expertise.

Automating Tasks with Natural Language

Microsoft also introduced a new Workflows agent that helps automate tasks like sending emails or managing calendars. Users describe what they want in plain language, such as “report a software bug,” and the AI creates a workflow that connects to Outlook, Teams, or other apps. The visual outline of the workflow appears on screen, allowing users to adjust it with natural language prompts.

However, some experts wonder if people with little technical experience will find it easy to build complex workflows. Jack Gold, an industry analyst, said that defining and automating detailed processes might require multiple tries and patience. Still, the ability to automate simple tasks could be a big help for many teams.

Microsoft also rolled out Copilot Studio “lite,” a simplified version of its low-code/no-code AI agent builder. This feature lets users create AI agents for specific tasks either by describing their purpose or through a more detailed setup screen. These agents can access relevant files and perform targeted actions, making automation more accessible.

Availability and Usage

All these new features are available now to Microsoft 365 Copilot subscribers. They are included as part of the existing license through the Microsoft 365 Agent Store. For those without a license, Microsoft offers options like Copilot Credits or a pay-as-you-go plan to access these tools. The Copilot Studio lite feature can also be used for free when building agents based only on web knowledge.

Overall, Microsoft is expanding Copilot’s capabilities to help workers create apps and automate tasks more easily. By enabling natural language commands and quick app development, Microsoft aims to make business automation accessible to everyone, not just tech experts.

Inspired by

• https://www.computerworld.com/article/4080435/m365-copilot-now-lets-you-build-apps-and-agents-with-natural-language-prompts.html

Sources

• gmpg.org
• microsoft.com
• asbpe.org
• eddie-ozzie.com
• podigee.com