Seth Juarez from Microsoft Developer demystifies the term ‘AI agent’, explaining for viewers how these entities interpret human language and execute real code, supporting developers with insights into Microsoft AI technologies.

What is an AI Agent?

Presenter: Seth Juarez (Microsoft Developer)

The term “AI agent” is often mentioned in technical conversations, but what does it specifically mean in a developer context?

Key Concepts

  • AI Agent Definition:
    • An AI agent is a new kind of control structure that can translate plain (natural) language input into actionable code or operations.
    • Unlike traditional programming models, AI agents use models that understand and execute instructions written in human language, bridging the gap between intent and execution.
  • How They Work:
    • AI agents leverage advanced language models (such as those available in Azure OpenAI Service) to parse user input, interpret intent, and generate code or perform tasks automatically.
    • This represents a shift from deterministic programming to probabilistic, intent-driven execution structures.
  • Why This Matters:
    • Developers can harness AI agents to create applications that are more intuitive and responsive to user needs.

Applications

  • AI agents can be integrated into chatbots, workflow automation tools, and developer productivity solutions.
  • Microsoft’s AI platforms and services provide APIs and infrastructure to help developers implement, fine-tune, and scale AI agents as part of their systems.

Further Resources

Summary

Understanding what AI agents are and how they operate is crucial for modern developers who want to create smarter, more adaptive applications with Microsoft’s suite of AI tools.