Expanding its artificial intelligence portfolio, Microsoft has introduced a new set of specialised models designed to enhance multimedia generation and transcription capabilities.
The company announced 3 new AI models — MAI-Transcribe-1, MAI-Voice-1, and MAI-Image-2 — aimed at image creation, voice generation, and speech-to-text conversion. These models are currently available through Microsoft Foundry and the MAI Playground, and are also being integrated into several consumer products.
MAI-Transcribe-1 is positioned as a key highlight. Microsoft claims it delivers state-of-the-art speech-to-text transcription across 25 widely used languages. Based on internal testing using the FLEURS benchmark, the model reportedly achieves lower error rates compared to competing models like Gemini 3.1 Flash and GPT-Transcribe. The company also states that it offers the “best price-performance of any large cloud provider.”
MAI-Voice-1 focuses on generating natural and expressive speech. It is designed to produce realistic voice output with emotional depth and consistency, even in long-form content. Within Foundry, users can create custom voices using just a few seconds of audio input. The model can generate 60 seconds of audio in 1 second and will support features such as Copilot Audio Expressions and Copilot Podcasts.
The third model, MAI-Image-2, builds on earlier capabilities to deliver improved image quality with faster output. Developed in collaboration with photographers, designers, and visual storytellers, it aims to enhance natural lighting, textures, and clarity of in-image text. WPP is among the first enterprise partners to adopt this model.
All 3 models are accessible via Microsoft Foundry and MAI Playground, with MAI-Image-2 also being rolled out across platforms like Copilot, Bing, and PowerPoint.
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