Following concerns that Microsoft is using connected experiences in its office apps to train its AI language models, the company clarified that worries are unfounded.

Microsoft says it isn’t using customer data from its Microsoft 365 apps to train its AI models. The clarification addresses reports circulating online in the last few weeks claiming Microsoft required Word and Excel users to opt out of training the company’s AI systems.

Microsoft on Wednesday denied claims that it uses customer data from its Microsoft 365 applications, including Word and Excel, to train artificial intelligence models. The response came after some users pointed out on social media that the company requires users to opt out of its "connected experiences" -- a feature that allows users to search for pictures or find information online,