Microsoft has announced a major upgrade to the Windows system to support a new standard called the Model Context Protocol (MCP). This standard was launched by Anthropic last year and is often referred to as the "USB-C port for AI applications." The introduction of MCP will make it easier for developers to integrate their AI applications with other applications, network services, and various parts of Windows.
Pavan Davuluri, CEO of Windows, said they hope the Windows platform evolves gradually, making AI agents part of the operating system workload. This means that the way users interact with applications and devices will change significantly, with AI agents helping users complete tasks more efficiently. Microsoft considers MCP a key step in reshaping Windows, aiming to create an entirely new work environment centered around AI.
To achieve this goal, Microsoft introduced a series of new developer features in Windows, enabling AI agents to access critical Windows functionalities. The MCP registry on Windows will serve as a secure source for AI agents to access all MCP servers. Davuluri pointed out that AI agents can discover installed MCP servers on client devices through the MCP registry, providing better service to users.
In a demonstration, Microsoft showed how MCP simplifies file searches. Users only need to ask natural language questions, such as "Find all files related to holidays in my Documents folder," and the AI agent can quickly locate the required files without manual folder selection. This function introduces the possibility of opening up more automated application functions on Windows, enhancing user experience.
However, Microsoft also recognizes the security risks associated with MCP, including potential token theft and server attacks. For this reason, Microsoft plans to release a preview version to a select group of developers to ensure the safety of the feature. David Weston, Vice President of Enterprise and Operating System Security at Microsoft, stated that they will prioritize security and design appropriate security controls to prevent various attacks. Additionally, MCP servers must meet certain security standards to be included in Microsoft's official registry.
Furthermore, Microsoft has reimagined its AI platform, launching the Windows AI Foundry, aimed at making it easier for developers to integrate AI models into their applications. Microsoft collaborated closely with companies like AMD, Intel, Nvidia, and Qualcomm to advance the development of the Windows AI Foundry.
Key points:
🌟 Microsoft launches the Model Context Protocol (MCP), allowing AI applications to interact more seamlessly with Windows and other services.
🔐 Microsoft prioritizes MCP security and plans to release a preview version to select developers to ensure the safety of the feature.
🤖 The launch of the Windows AI Foundry will simplify the process for developers to integrate AI models into their applications.
Official blog: https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2025/05/19/securing-the-model-context-protocol-building-a-safer-agentic-future-on-windows/
