Microsoft unveils multi-agent AI system to power enterprise workflows

Microsoft is expanding its enterprise AI capabilities with a robust set of multi-agent systems that enable collaborative problem-solving across business platforms. Announced at Build 2025, these enhancements to Copilot Studio tackle key limitations that have previously hindered broader enterprise adoption of AI agents by providing managed infrastructure with built-in governance frameworks. The updates represent Microsoft’s most substantial effort yet to transform how businesses leverage AI for complex workflows, with a focus on practical application, security, and cross-platform integration.

The big picture: Microsoft’s new multi-agent system enables Copilot Studio agents to collaborate with Microsoft 365, Azure AI Agents Service, and Azure Fabric agents, delegating tasks among themselves to complete complex business processes.

• The system supports cross-platform agent communication, allowing for scenarios like pulling sales data, drafting proposals, and scheduling follow-ups.
• This collaborative framework addresses key limitations that have previously hindered enterprise adoption of agent technology.

Key innovations: Microsoft has introduced several transformative features that significantly expand Copilot Studio’s enterprise capabilities.

• A new ‘Computer Use’ feature allows agents to directly interact with desktop applications and websites based on intent rather than pixel coordinates, eliminating API dependencies.
• Organizations can now choose from over 1,900 models, including the latest from OpenAI GPT-4.1, Llama, and DeepSeek, with fine-tuning options for specific domain requirements.
• WhatsApp integration, available in early July, will extend AI agent capabilities to billions of global users.

What they’re saying: Microsoft executives emphasize the critical importance of governance in enterprise AI deployments.

• “We’re seeing from customers doing large-scale production rollouts that governance and observability become even more critical,” said Ray Smith, VP of AI Agents at Microsoft.
• Smith noted that Microsoft’s goal is delivering solutions that are “more cost-effective, faster, higher quality, and that ultimately create a superior customer experience.”

Developer enhancements: Microsoft is providing new tools to streamline agent development and administration.

• A Visual Studio Code extension for Copilot Studio simplifies the development process.
• Enhanced admin controls in the Microsoft 365 Admin Center improve governance capabilities.
• AI-powered agent discovery features help organizations better leverage their existing agent ecosystem.