Dell expands AI Factory with Microsoft to boost AI solutions

Dell Technologies has announced expansions to its Dell AI Factory offerings, which aim to enhance AI performance within multicloud settings and streamline the creation of bespoke AI solutions through Microsoft tools.

Among the key components of the announcement is Dell APEX File Storage for Microsoft Azure, which is engineered to provide improved AI workload performance, scalability, and comprehensive data services through a newly introduced Dell-managed option, facilitating simpler management and deployment.

Additionally, Dell has introduced services customised for Microsoft environments to expedite AI innovation and boost productivity.

"Organisations modernising their IT strategies to support emerging workloads, like AI, need solutions that help them innovate faster, control costs and protect data across multicloud environments," remarked Arthur Lewis, President of Infrastructure Solutions Group at Dell Technologies. "Our storage software, data protection and services advancements help customers in Microsoft environments accelerate their transformation efforts quickly and securely."

In collaboration with Microsoft, Dell has enriched its Dell AI Factory with a variety of solutions and services. These include the Dell APEX File Storage for Microsoft Azure, soon to offer a Dell-managed option designed for organisations seeking simplicity in deployment and management while catering to AI workloads with needs for enterprise-class performance and scalability.

Dell's newest services are geared towards simplifying AI adoption and devising custom AI solutions. Accelerator Services for Copilot+ PCs aim to guide users in leveraging new features to enhance productivity.

Services for Microsoft Copilot Studio and Azure AI Studio support the creation and implementation of Copilot agents and AI solutions customised for distinct business requirements.

Dell Technologies is also introducing data protection and cybersecurity innovations specifically for Microsoft clientele, via Dell APEX Protection Services for Microsoft Azure. This service is designed to provide Dell-managed, AI-powered data protection across varied locations, enhancing operational efficiency and bolstering resource use. Features include advanced data reduction capabilities, zero trust security with immutability, encryption, and multi-factor authentication, as well as efficient recovery solutions against cyber threats.

Enhancements to Dell's cybersecurity services for Microsoft environments include Advisory Services to align client cybersecurity postures with the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and Managed Detection and Response offerings, enabling Dell experts to manage threat detection and response activities round the clock.

Aung Oo, Vice President of Azure Storage at Microsoft, commended the initiative saying, "Our customers are looking for ways to modernise their IT infrastructure and adopt hybrid cloud services safely and securely. Dell Technologies is enabling their customers to bring their existing knowledge, trusted platforms, and enterprise data to Azure to speed the adoption of critical technologies including Azure AI Services."

Availability of the new offerings varies, with some services such as Accelerator Services for Copilot+ PCs and various Microsoft Studios services being immediately available, while Dell APEX File Storage and Protection Services are set for release in public preview or full availability in the first half of 2025.