Microsoft has been investing in artificial intelligence research for nearly two decades, and the company’s AI strategy continues to evolve as technology advances. Microsoft’s long-term goals are to develop a general artificial intelligence—one that will be capable of making decisions on its own—as well as to create technologies that can help businesses and people better understand and manage data. Microsoft’s AI research also focuses on creating solutions to address humanity’s most pressing challenges, such as environmental sustainability, poverty, and global health.