Microsoft wants to radically change the way you surf the web

Core Viewpoint - Microsoft envisions artificial intelligence transforming the internet similarly to how mobile phones did over the past two decades, although the technology's limitations may hinder this grand vision [1][2]. Group 1: AI Development and Infrastructure - Generative AI gained prominence with the launch of ChatGPT by OpenAI in late 2022, prompting Microsoft to plan a new version of the internet beyond current chatbots [2]. - The tech industry is investing billions into AI infrastructure, with companies restructuring workforces to adapt to the evolving landscape, exemplified by Microsoft laying off over 6,000 employees to streamline management [3]. - Microsoft aims to create an "open agentic web," where AI-powered agents perform tasks autonomously for users, moving beyond traditional chatbot interactions [4][5]. Group 2: Technical Framework and Protocols - At the Build conference, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella outlined a framework for the new web, showcasing AI agents that can perform tasks like fixing code and creating presentations [6]. - Microsoft is developing a protocol called Model Context Protocol, likened to HTTP, which allows AI agents to navigate the web and interact with each other [9]. Group 3: Competition and Challenges - Microsoft faces competition from other tech giants like Google and Meta, all seeking to innovate beyond chatbots and shift the web from click-based to agent-based interactions [10]. - The success of the agentic web relies on the accuracy of information retrieval, as demonstrated by recent issues with AI-generated content producing false information [12][14]. - Adoption of new technologies like NLWeb, which aims to create a more fluid AI experience, is underway, but widespread acceptance may be limited due to existing user agency concerns [15][16][17].