Zoom has unveiled several significant updates at its annual Zoomtopia conference, focusing on its AI capabilities, particularly with the launch of AI Companion 2.0. This enhanced productivity assistant will integrate seamlessly across Zoom Workplace, aiding users in managing communications and synthesizing information from various sources, including Microsoft and Google apps. AI Companion 2.0 features a side panel that remembers user interactions, summarizes conversations, and generates actionable tasks, all while remaining free for paying Zoom Workplace subscribers. Additionally, Zoom announced plans for custom add-ons to provide further personalization, albeit at an additional cost. The company emphasized its commitment to responsible AI development, ensuring user data privacy and involving numerous safeguards against misuse. While the AI Companion aims to streamline workflows, it also raises concerns regarding potential deepfake risks with the introduction of AI-generated avatars expected next year.