Microsoft Makes Big Changes to Skype & Teams Security: AI Upskilling Workers Everywhere
Microsoft is shaking things up in the world of communication and collaboration.
Skype’s Credit System Goes on Hiatus
The company has quietly transitioned Skype away from its credit-based system to a monthly subscription model. This change, announced through a forum moderator rather than an official statement, will leave users unable to purchase new Skype credit. Any existing credit must also be used at least every six months to avoid inactivity.
Microsoft confirmed to TechCrunch that this transition is permanent, stating:
“The sales of new Skype numbers and Skype credit have been permanently halted. For some customers, the interface for purchasing new Skype credit may still be visible in certain entry points, although payment attempts will not go through. We are aware of this issue and working on making the necessary updates.”
Vishing Attacks Target Microsoft Teams
Adding to the cybersecurity concerns, Microsoft Teams users are now facing new threats. According to Trend Micro, cybercriminals are using “vishing” attacks to impersonate clients during Teams calls.
Vishing is a type of social engineering scam where attackers use phone calls or messaging apps to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information or granting access to their systems.
AI Powers Up Employee Experience
On a brighter note, Google Cloud is taking AI to the next level to improve employee productivity.
Google Agentspace: AI Assistant for the Workplace
Introducing Agentspace, a new AI tool leveraging Google search capabilities, enterprise data, and the power of Gemini to automate repetitive tasks and provide quick access to organizational information.
Google Cloud claims Agentspace will empower teams across various departments, including business analysts, HR, engineers, and marketers, by:
- Providing AI-driven insights
- Streamlining complex tasks
- Enabling seamless collaboration across regions with multi-language support
Key Components of Agentspace:-
Agentspace currently comprises NotebookLM Enterprise (an AI research assistant), Google Agentspace Enterprise multimodal company data search agent, and Google Agentspace Enterprise Plus, designed for automating business functions.
Kevin Ichhpurani, President of Global Partner Ecosystem at Google Cloud, emphasized the significance of Agentspace on LinkedIn, stating:
“Today, we introduced the Google Agentspace, bringing AI agents and AI-powered search to enterprises. With Google Agentspace, every team—from business analysts and HR to engineers and marketers—can gain AI-driven insights, streamline complex tasks, and collaborate seamlessly across regions with multi-language support.”
BT Group Leverages Sprinklr AI for Enhanced Customer Experience
BT Group has joined the AI revolution, partnering with Sprinklr to transform its customer experience through the power of unified CX management.
The integration of Sprinklr’s platform will provide EE and BT users with an elevated customer support experience, empowered by conversational AI. This will streamline support processes for BT Group’s customer service representatives across business, consumer, and internal contact channels.
Harry Singh, MD of Consumer Digital at BT Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration:
“The collaboration with Sprinklr marks a significant step forward in BT Group’s commitment to using cutting-edge technology to deliver exceptional customer experiences. With our customer contact platform, we have unlocked powerful AI-enhanced capabilities for our customer service, boosting satisfaction and creating exciting new opportunities for customer experience.”
Sprinklr’s platform allows BT Group to leverage its own data to personalize and enhance customer interactions. This integration powers EE’s virtual assistant, Aimee, and supports real-time online chat messaging, ultimately providing a faster and more personalized support experience.
These advancements highlight the growing role of AI and how it’s shaping the future of communication, teamwork, and customer service.
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