Microsoft AI Updates: July 2, 2026

1. Microsoft Retires Azure AI Certifications in Shift to AI-Era Skilling

Microsoft. In a June 30 partner announcement, Microsoft confirmed it is retiring multiple certifications between June 1 and August 31, 2026, as part of a move toward AI-focused skilling criteria. The Azure AI Engineer Associate (AI-102) was retired as of June 30 and replaced by the new Azure AI Apps and Agents Developer Associate (AI-103), while several Dynamics 365 and Power Platform credentials were consolidated into new agentic AI certifications such as Agentic AI Business Solutions Architect (AB-100). Microsoft said the changes update skilling requirements across Solutions Partner designations and specializations including AI Apps and AI Platform on Azure. Source