Microsoft Unveils Fourth Preview of AI Shell: Enhancements and New Features
Microsoft has rolled out the latest iteration of its AI Shell, marking the fourth preview release packed with several significant enhancements. This update brings improvements for macOS users, integrates Microsoft Entra ID support, adds new commands for the Invoke-AIShell function, and introduces the Phi Silica agent along with other enhancements.
Understanding Microsoft’s AI Shell
For those unfamiliar, Microsoft’s AI Shell serves as an interactive environment, enabling users to engage with various large language models through a chat-like interface. This platform facilitates connections to multiple AI agents, providing a conversational means of interaction with advanced AI models.
Key MacOS Enhancements: A Game Changer
Among the most significant updates, Microsoft has improved the macOS sidecar experience for users of iTerm2. Previously, this sidecar functionality was characterized by unreliability and lacked support for the /code post command. With the latest improvements, Microsoft assures a more stable experience, aligning the functionality closely with that of Windows users. To utilize this sidecar mode, users are required to execute PowerShell 7 within iTerm2.
Introducing the Phi Silica Agent
Another exciting addition is the support for the experimental Phi Silica agent, which utilizes the integrated Phi Silica model found in Copilot+ PCs. This feature allows users to engage with the AI Shell offline. It is crucial to note that the Phi Silica agent is not included with the default AI Shell installation. Interested users will need to clone the repository and compile the code independently, while also keeping in mind that the agent’s experimental nature may lead to instability in future iterations.
Streamlined Authentication and New Command Parameters
Microsoft has also incorporated support for Entra ID authentication across Azure OpenAI instances. This development enables users to access Azure OpenAI resources more securely, eliminating the necessity of storing sensitive keys in configuration files.
Furthermore, new parameters have been introduced for the Invoke-AIShell command to enhance user experience with the side pane. The following parameters are now available:
- -PostCode: This allows posting of code directly generated in the side pane to the connected PowerShell session, thus minimizing the need for constant switching between the side pane and terminal for executing /code post commands.
- -CopyCode: Enables copying of code from the side pane effortlessly, bypassing the need for the /code copy command.
- -Exit: Provides a streamlined option to exit the side pane without requiring the /exit command.
Additional Minor Improvements
The update also brings various minor enhancements, including:
- Updated model information to accommodate the latest OpenAI models.
- Introduction of /clear as an alias for the /cls command to facilitate console clearing in AIShell.
- Updated installation script for seamless installation of the AIShell module on macOS.
- Refined model management and improved system prompt integration within OllamaAgent.
Getting Started with Preview 4 of AI Shell
To install the fourth preview of AI Shell, open PowerShell and execute the following command:
Invoke-Expression "& { $(Invoke-RestMethod 'https://aka.ms/install-aishell.ps1') }"
Your Feedback Matters
Microsoft encourages users to share their experiences and feedback in the GitHub repository. This input helps to refine and enhance the tool further.
For more details on this release, you can explore the original source.
Related Articles:
Unlock Free Windows Performance Boost for Some AMD Ryzen Users with Easy System Tweaks
13:23
OneDrive Search Issues Affecting Many Users
19:37
Windows 11 Prevents Google Chrome Access Because of Microsoft Safety Feature, Fix Released
15:58
Leave a Reply ▼