Microsoft Introduces ‘Vibe Working’

Microsoft is introducing a new AI-powered work approach called 'vibe working' through its Office apps, featuring Agent Mode. This feature is part of the Microsoft 365 Copilot apps and aims to enhance productivity by generating high-quality documents, spreadsheets, and presentations with simple prompts.

Just as vibe coding transformed software development, the latest models in Copilot unlock productivity for Office artifacts. Users can start with a simple prompt and work iteratively with Copilot, utilizing data sources to quickly create Excel reports or PowerPoint presentations.

Microsoft provides examples like creating financial monthly reports or building business-specific loan calculators. However, caution is advised when applying AI to Excel spreadsheets. According to SpreadsheetBench, Agent Mode in Excel has an accuracy rate of 57.2%.

Agent Mode in Word can also be used for creating monthly reports or executive summaries, and for document cleanup before publication. Microsoft claims this deeper interaction leads to faster iteration and better ideas.

Agent Mode is currently available to Microsoft 365 Copilot-licensed customers and subscribers in the Frontier Program. Office Agent is rolling out in the US only.