Microsoft Unveils Malware-Hunting AI, Maps AI-First Windows for 2030

Microsoft signaled a deeper shift toward so-called “agentic” computing, unveiling an AI agent that can autonomously detect malware and outlining plans for future versions of Windows that rely far less on traditional mouse-and-keyboard input. Corporate Vice President for Enterprise and OS Security David Weston said in a 5 August video that by 2030 an “AI-first” Windows could interact through speech, vision and context awareness, making today’s graphical interfaces feel as dated as MS-DOS. Weston added that post-quantum encryption is already being built into Windows in anticipation of the added computing power that quantum hardware will bring. Preview builds of Windows 11 also contain references to a “Taskbar Companion,” hinting that AI helpers may be embedded directly into the taskbar. While Microsoft has not confirmed a release timeline, the moves underscore the company’s intent to weave autonomous assistants across the operating system—from security functions to everyday user interactions.