Microsoft to Launch AI Service in Partnership With Databricks That Could Compete With OpenAI
Microsoft plans to sell a new version of Databricks software that helps customers build artificial intelligence applications for businesses, The Information reported Thursday, citing people with direct knowledge of the plan.
Databricks — an AI-enabled data analytics platform that Microsoft sells through its Azure cloud server unit — helps companies build AI models from scratch or reuse open-source models as an alternative to licensing OpenAI’s proprietary models, the report added.
Microsoft and Databricks did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment.
In July, Microsoft presented an aggressive consumption plan to meet the demand for artificial intelligence services.
The company has started integrating AI functionality into its products, including Azure, Microsoft 365, GitHub, and several developer tools.
Meanwhile, Microsoft said Thursday it will pull the plug on the Xbox 360 online store and marketplace next year as it focuses on its latest consoles and Game Pass subscription service.
The Xbox 360 Store and Xbox 360 Marketplace will shut down on July 29, 2024, and players using the old console will not be able to purchase and download new games, according to a post on the Xbox website.
However, Microsoft allows users to play Xbox 360 games they have already purchased and older titles compatible with the console.
“A lot has changed since the Xbox 360 launched in 2005. Technology has advanced, gamers’ expectations have changed, and we’re focused on making Xbox Series X|S the best place to play now and in the future,” Xbox said.
