Microsoft has launched a simulator to train the AI system for drones

Microsoft has launched a platform to train autonomous aircraft's artificial intelligence (AI) systems.

Project AirSim is a flight simulator for drones, which companies can use to develop and train software that controls them. It makes test flights possible in risky places, such as near power lines. Microsoft says that means millions of flights can be simulated in seconds. The companies can virtually see how the strong winds can affects the battery or how the vehicle flies in the rain.

Microsoft has a long history of virtual flight, and Project AirSim is the most recent one. Microsoft's Gurdeep Pall, while announcing the launch, said, "The project AirSim shows the power of the industrial metaverse - the virtual worlds where businesses will build, hone and test solutions, and then bring them into the real world." The company announced that the new proprietary platform has more unique features and requires less technical knowledge. However, Microsoft said it would provide more information as the general release date approaches, and its goal is also to offer a free option.

The project runs on Azure, the cloud computing platform of Microsoft. Airtonomy, a firm in the US, was provided early access to the platform. The company uses drones to inspect infrastructures, such as power lines and wind turbines.