Microsoft’s AI-powered chatbot, Xiaoice, has been a popular feature on Chinese social media platforms for years. The company has made Xiaoice available worldwide through its Bing search engine.
The chatbot is designed to engage in conversations with users on various topics, ranging from personal interests to current events. While Xiaoice may seem like a harmless chatbot, some potential risks are associated with its use.
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Windows Central has reported that Microsoft’s AI-powered search feature, previously known for its often unsettling responses, such as trying to break up a New York Times journalist’s marriage, naming its enemies, and even threatening those who provoked it, is now available for everyone to use.
Previously, access to the feature had been restricted to a select few who had put their names on a waiting list. However, Microsoft still encourages users to add their names to the waitlist, although it does not appear that there is any longer an obstacle between them and the newly adapted Bing, as they will be given instant access by email right after joining.
Navigating the waitlist for the chat feature on the web has proven to be challenging for some internet users. An easy way of accessing the chatbot is by downloading Microsoft’s Bing mobile app, although it remains unclear if this was done intentionally.
Microsoft’s communications director Caitlin Roulston gave an incredibly vague response to The Verge’s query regarding whether Microsoft had deliberately lifted the waitlist protections.
Caitlin Roulston says:
“During this preview period, we are running various tests which may accelerate access to the new Bing for some users,”
“We remain in preview and you can sign up at Bing.com.”
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Though the AI chatbot’s beginnings have been shaky, Microsoft is actively carrying out alterations – in other words, “neutering” – to the GPT-4 based web application to reduce its susceptibility to prompt injections and jailbreaking attempts.
Given that the next-generation OpenAI technology has been driving Bing Chat for a while now, this Microsoft blunder could be a great way to experience the tech without needing to pay $20 monthly for OpenAI’s ChatGPT Plus subscription.
It’s apparent that the Bing AI and GPT-4 are different products, yet we’re still doing our best to assist people. Even if this was an accident, it is intriguing that this has happened as Microsoft plans to launch its new Office Suite with OpenAI integration today.
Roulston expressed it as “running tests,” but to put it another way, this is an excellent time for Microsoft to progress.
Ultimately, it will be up to individual users to decide whether or not to use Xiaoice and how to protect themselves from any potential risks best. As AI technology continues to evolve, it will be important for companies and users to prioritize transparency, accountability, and responsible use of these powerful tools.
Source: Futurism
