Microsoft Denies Using Office Data to Train AI Models

Overview

• Microsoft has refuted claims that data from Word and Excel is used to train its large language models (LLMs) like Copilot.
• The controversy arose from confusion over the 'Connected Experiences' feature, which is enabled by default and supports internet-dependent functionalities such as co-authoring and grammar checks.
• Microsoft emphasized that 'Connected Experiences' analyzes content solely to provide productivity features and is unrelated to AI model training.
• Users concerned about privacy can disable the feature through Microsoft 365 settings, though some cloud-based functionalities will be affected.
• The debate highlights growing user concerns about data privacy as other tech companies have opted users into AI training by default in the past.