Microsoft introduces ‘AI employees’ that can handle client queries

US company gives customers the ability to build own virtual agents as well as releasing 10 off-the-shelf bots

Microsoft is introducing autonomous artificial intelligence agents, or virtual employees, that can perform tasks such as handling client queries and identifying sales leads, as the tech sector strives to show investors that the AI boom can produce indispensable products.

The US tech company is giving customers the ability to build their own AI agents as well as releasing 10 off-the-shelf bots that can carry out a range of roles including supply chain management and customer service.