Microsoft Outlook Introduces AI-Powered Personalized Themes

On Thursday, Microsoft announced that its Outlook email service will introduce a new feature allowing users to create personalized themes using generative artificial intelligence (AI) based on individual preferences.

This feature is available to users subscribed to the Copilot Pro consumer plan and enterprise accounts with Copilot enabled, supporting iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, and the web version.

With the Copilot theme feature, users can create themes based on over 100 global locations or custom locations. Additionally, users can set the theme update frequency, including automatic updates every few hours, daily, weekly, or monthly.

After generating a theme, users can choose to view it in real-life, oil painting, or cartoon styles.

In a blog post, Microsoft mentioned that if users enable location permissions in Outlook, the My Location theme will offer unique images based on the user's whereabouts and dynamically update during their travels or vacations. Similarly, weather-based dynamic themes will update in accordance with current weather conditions.

Users can access these AI-generated themes through the Outlook appearance settings.

Microsoft stated that this new feature will enable users to personalize their email service, akin to decorating a desk with artwork or candles.

Although this AI feature does not add extra functionality, it does offer an engaging way to personalize the email application. Microsoft and Google have been striving to integrate AI-driven productivity features into their email services, but currently, Gmail does not offer AI themes (though the Chrome browser has related features), which means Outlook users now have greater creative freedom.

Thursday's announcement follows Microsoft's introduction of AI capabilities to its Notepad and Paint applications. Windows Insider Program members will receive a "Rewrite" tool that uses AI to rephrase, adjust tone, and modify the length of content.

For the Paint application, Windows Insider members will gain access to new AI image editing tools, including a generative fill feature that allows users to edit and add using text prompts. Additionally, a new generative erase feature will enable users to remove unwanted objects from artworks.

Microsoft is rolling out these two features to Windows 11 Insider Preview users in the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Canada, Italy, and Germany.