Micro$oft AI

Question

I have hated Microsoft all my life. They make hard-to-use software and hardware, and adding AI slop isn't going to help. It's time to switch to Apple.

Answer 1

AI capabilities in Microsoft products are optional features that can be avoided or minimized while continuing to use existing Microsoft software, or a switch to other platforms can be made if preferred.

For staying with Microsoft but limiting AI:

1. Use classic or non-Copilot plans
   • Microsoft 365 offers “Classic” plans without Copilot AI features. To move away from Copilot-enabled plans, manage the subscription at https://account.microsoft.com/services and use the “Cancel subscription” flow where an option to switch back to a classic plan may appear.
2. Use non-AI Windows and apps
   • AI-powered features are integrated into Windows 11 and Microsoft 365, but core functionality (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.) remains usable without relying on AI tools.
   • On Copilot+ PCs, semantic indexing is enabled by default to improve search, but it can be adjusted or limited via Settings > Privacy & Security > Searching Windows > Advanced indexing options.
3. Choose AI platforms selectively
   • For development scenarios, AI offerings such as Copilot, Azure AI Services, Windows AI APIs, and Foundry Local are optional tools. Applications can be built and run without integrating these AI components.

If switching platforms entirely, Microsoft tools and subscriptions can be cancelled or allowed to expire, and no additional AI features need to be adopted.

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References:

• Microsoft products and apps support
• Use Surface Keyboard
• Artificial Intelligence overview
• Windows Search and privacy
• Choose your Windows AI solution
• Develop .NET apps with AI features
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