New Microsoft AI Shell Public Preview

During Microsoft Ignite 2024, Microsoft announced the public preview of AI Shell, a groundbreaking innovation that integrates artificial intelligence directly into command-line workflows. With this release, Microsoft aims to bridge the gap between traditional shell interactions and the growing capabilities of AI, enabling developers and IT professionals to work smarter and faster.

What is Microsoft AI Shell?

AI Shell is a new command-line interface (CLI) designed to enhance productivity by incorporating AI-driven assistance directly into terminal workflows. This tool introduces a conversational approach to interacting with the command line, allowing users to perform tasks more intuitively and efficiently.

By leveraging Microsoft’s AI technologies, including models from Azure OpenAI and integration with Copilot, AI Shell provides a dynamic environment for both novice and experienced users to automate, query, and troubleshoot with unprecedented ease.

Core Features of AI Shell

1. Conversational Command Execution: AI Shell’s most distinguishing feature is its ability to interpret natural language commands. This eliminates the need to memorize complex command syntax or scripts, as the AI converts your conversational input into actionable commands.
2. Integrated AI Agents: AI Shell comes with two built-in AI agents
   • Azure OpenAI Agent: This agent utilizes Azure OpenAI models to handle natural language processing, code generation, and general queries. Users can connect to their custom Azure OpenAI deployments for tailored and secure interactions.
   • Copilot in Azure: This agent specializes in Azure-centric tasks, such as generating Azure CLI or Azure PowerShell commands, helping users quickly automate cloud-specific operations.
3. PowerShell Integration: AI Shell seamlessly integrates with PowerShell 7, allowing users to combine the familiarity of traditional PowerShell scripts with the intelligence of AI. Users can toggle between standalone mode and integrated mode, ensuring a smooth transition from conventional to AI-enhanced workflows.
4. Windows Terminal and iTerm2 on macOS: AI Shell includes integration with Windows Terminal and iTerm2 on macOS too!
5. Framework for Custom AI Agents: AI Shell is not just a tool but a platform. It provides a framework for developers to create and deploy custom AI agents, tailored to specific organizational needs. This opens up possibilities for domain-specific automation and assistance.

Use Cases for AI Shell

The possibilities for AI Shell are vast, with applications spanning across development, IT operations, and cloud management:

• Code Generation and Debugging: Developers can use AI Shell to generate boilerplate code, refactor scripts, or debug complex PowerShell commands with contextual insights provided by the AI agents.
• Azure Resource Management: Azure administrators can simplify tasks like setting up resource groups, deploying virtual machines, or managing subscriptions by asking AI Shell to generate the appropriate commands.
• Troubleshooting and Learning: New users can quickly learn command-line syntax and best practices by engaging in conversational queries with AI agents.
• Automation Frameworks: Teams can extend AI Shell by creating custom agents for automating repetitive tasks, such as report generation, log analysis, or system health checks.

Getting Started with AI Shell

To try out AI Shell, follow these steps:

1. Download and Install: AI Shell is available for public preview. It can be downloaded as a standalone executable or as a PowerShell module.
2. Choose Your Mode: You can use AI Shell in:
   • Standalone Mode: Ideal for new users who want a lightweight AI-powered CLI.
   • Integrated Mode: For PowerShell enthusiasts who want AI enhancements without leaving their familiar environment.
3. Connect AI Agents: Configure the Azure OpenAI Agent with your custom Azure deployment to ensure secure and private operations. Alternatively, enable Copilot for direct integration with Azure workflows.

Have you tried AI Shell yet?

Share your experience and thoughts in the comments. Let’s discuss how this tool can shape the future of command-line productivity!

Original Article Source: New Microsoft AI Shell Public Preview by Chris Pietschmann (If you’re reading this somewhere other than Build5Nines.com, it was republished without permission.)