Developers have been comparing various AI coding tools, like Anthropic’s Claude Code, Anysphere’s Cursor, and Microsoft’s GitHub Copilot. While no single tool excels at every task, Claude Code is gaining popularity for its user-friendly interface. This makes it appealing not just to developers but also to those without technical backgrounds.
Interestingly, Microsoft seems to favor Claude Code too. Reports suggest that the company is encouraging many of its employees to try it out, even if they lack coding experience. Microsoft first integrated Claude’s AI model into its tools last June and has since expanded its use among various teams.
The CoreAI team at Microsoft, led by Jay Parikh, has been experimenting with Claude Code. Last week, the Experiences and Devices division, which oversees Windows and Microsoft 365, was instructed to use it. This division is tasked with crucial software and devices like Outlook and Microsoft Teams. They’re even asking non-developers, such as designers and project managers, to test the tool to create prototypes.
This shift toward making coding accessible to non-technical staff is significant. Currently, Microsoft developers are expected to use both Claude Code and GitHub Copilot, offering feedback on their experiences with both tools. This could lead to Claude Code potentially being marketed directly to external clients in the future.
Recent data indicates that around 91% of Microsoft engineering teams already utilize GitHub Copilot. With Claude Code entering the mix, there’s curiosity about how it will affect the use of the existing coding tools. Many in the industry express concern that AI may render junior developer roles obsolete, as more tasks can now be automated.
In a recent interview, Microsoft’s communications chief, Frank Shaw, noted that companies, including Microsoft, regularly test different products to stay informed about market dynamics. Even though Microsoft is heavily invested in OpenAI, its partnership with Anthropic is growing stronger.
As part of this collaboration, Microsoft signed a deal last November that gives access to multiple Claude models. This agreement includes Anthropic committing to significant purchases of Azure computing capacity.
Moreover, the change isn’t just in engineering. Microsoft also plans to embed Claude Code within its 365 applications, using it in areas where it outperforms OpenAI’s offerings. This innovation could reshape workflows for many employees across the organization.
Ultimately, the adoption of Claude Code raises questions regarding its impact on over 100,000 code repositories at Microsoft. As AI continues to infiltrate coding practices, the company is navigating an evolving landscape where AI agents may soon play a larger role in software development.
It’s an exciting yet uncertain time in technology, with companies like Microsoft leading the charge to harness the potential of AI in everyday tasks and workflows.
For those interested in further reading about Microsoft’s strategies in AI and technology, The Information offers insightful reports and data on the current trends.
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