In an ambitious move to simplify the development of AI-powered chatbots, Microsoft has unveiled an open project called NLWeb. Announced during the Build 2025 conference, this innovative platform enables websites to implement a conversational interface with ease. By using just a few lines of code, along with their preferred AI model and data, businesses can enhance user engagement on their sites.
NLWeb provides a straightforward solution for websites looking to integrate chatbots. With a simple text field and a submission button, companies can create interactive experiences for their users. For instance, a retail website could utilize NLWeb to develop a chatbot that assists customers in selecting clothing for specific occasions, while a culinary site might implement it to suggest complementary dishes based on a given recipe.
One of the standout features of NLWeb is its ability to make web content discoverable and accessible to various AI platforms. This is facilitated through support for MCP, Anthropic’s standard that connects AI models with the systems housing data. This functionality ensures that businesses can leverage their existing content in new and engaging ways.
Microsoft has expressed its belief that NLWeb will serve a crucial role similar to that of HTML for the emerging agentic web. The company states, “It allows users to interact directly with web content in a rich, semantic manner.” This vision underscores the potential of NLWeb to transform user interactions on the internet, making them more intuitive and meaningful.
While Microsoft did not explicitly confirm it, NLWeb appears to be influenced by technologies developed by OpenAI, a close collaborator of Microsoft. Reports from The Information last November indicated that OpenAI was collaborating with various partners, including Condé Nast, Redfin, Eventbrite, and Priceline, on an early version of NLWeb. Initially pitched as a means for brands to incorporate ChatGPT-like conversational features into their websites, the project faced several delays due to technical challenges.
After months of development and refinement, NLWeb is now prepared for widespread use. Although it may differ from OpenAI's original vision, this launch marks a significant milestone in the journey toward making AI chatbots more accessible and functional for businesses worldwide.
In conclusion, NLWeb represents a pivotal advancement in the integration of AI into everyday web experiences. As companies look to enhance user engagement and interaction, this tool promises to simplify the process of creating effective and intelligent chatbots.
