ISLAMABAD: Microsoft has reportedly threatened to cut off access to its internet search data that it licenses to rival search engines if they continue using it as the basis for their own AI chat products. At least two customers have been told that using Microsoft’s Bing search index, which is a map of the internet that can be scanned in real-time, to feed their Artificial Intelligence chat tools violates the terms of their contract.
According to Bloomberg News, which cited people familiar with the matter, Microsoft may also terminate licenses providing access to its search index. The Redmond, Washington-based company has not yet commented on the matter.
This move is seen as part of Microsoft’s efforts to revamp its Bing search engine and Edge Web browser with artificial intelligence.
Microsoft to upgrade search engine with AI
In February, the company announced that it was upgrading the Bing search engine and Edge Web browser with AI to retake the lead in consumer technology markets where it remained behind.
The upgraded Bing search engine was made available to users late last month, and it appears that Microsoft is now taking steps to protect its investment in AI technology.
While it remains unknown how the dispute will be resolved, the move underscores the increasing importance of AI in the search engine industry and the fierce competition between tech giants to stay ahead of the curve.
