Microsoft is set to launch a private version of ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI, that runs on dedicated cloud servers later this quarter. This move aims to target industries like finance and healthcare that have been reluctant to adopt the chatbot due to concerns over data privacy and security. The dedicated cloud servers hosting the isolated server will prevent data from being shared with the main ChatGPT system, thus preserving customer privacy.
This new version of ChatGPT could cost up to 10 times more than the regular version to attract high-security industries like banking and healthcare. The private service will compete with OpenAI’s commercial push and reassure customers that their data and secrets will not be leaked to the main ChatGPT system.
Microsoft has been developing privacy protection methods for years to train OpenAI’s machine learning software, and the dedicated isolated servers are one of the effective methods found to prevent data leakage. The private version of ChatGPT distinguishes the company’s service from OpenAI’s service and addresses the growing privacy concerns in the AI industry.
The move is expected to convince customers to use Azure-supported ChatGPT instead of allowing OpenAI to collaborate with cloud service competitors. Microsoft salespeople are already fielding inquiries from organizations about the forthcoming product, and many large customers, including banks, have existing contracts with Azure, which could prove advantageous in persuading them that Microsoft will manage their data securely.
While Apple has been struggling with organizational dysfunction and a lack of ambition in its AI efforts, Microsoft’s latest move seemingly leapfrogs Apple to offer a privacy-focused AI chatbot in a ringfenced environment. This move also indicates that Microsoft’s relationship with OpenAI is no longer as sweet as it used to be.
As more companies and industries adopt artificial intelligence technology, the issue of data privacy and security will continue to be a top priority. Microsoft’s move to launch a private version of ChatGPT is a significant step in addressing these concerns and offering an alternative to the regular version of the AI language model.
