Key Takeaways
- Microsoft is launching multiple new certifications in 2026
- Focus is shifting to real-world AI applications and automation
- Some older certifications will be retired
- New certifications focus on AI agents, Copilot, and intelligent apps
In this post we are discussing Microsoft Introduces Advanced AI Certifications to Support the Growing Demand for AI Skills Across Industries. Microsoft has announced an expansion of its AI certification portfolio, introducing new credentials designed to help professionals build skills for an AI-driven job market. The update includes new role-based certifications, upcoming exams in 2026, and changes to existing learning paths.
Why is Microsoft Making these Changes?
Microsoft is updating its certifications to match the latest technology trends. As technology keeps changing, it is important for certifications to stay updated so learners can gain the right and current skills. These changes help people stay relevant and prepared for job roles.
What happens if I Already have a Retiring Certification?
If you already earned a certification that is going to retire, you don’t lose it. It will stay valid until it expires. Retirement does not revoke or invalidate Certifications that were earned while the exam was active. They show your continued dedication to staying up to date and learning new skills in this ever-changing technical landscape.
What if a Retiring Certification is Required for an Expert-level Certification?
If a certification that is being retired is required for a higher-level certification, Microsoft will update the requirements. It may replace the old certification with a new one.
If you already completed the expert certification, you could keep it as long as you renew it on time. Also, if your current certification has not expired, you can still use it to qualify for the expert-level certification. But once it expires, it cannot be used anymore.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Microsoft Introduces Advanced AI Certifications to Support the Growing Demand for AI Skills Across Industries
This shift is increasing the demand for professionals who can apply AI effectively in their roles.
To support this growing need, Microsoft’s new certifications focus on practical skills like building intelligent applications, working with AI agents, and leading digital transformation. These updates aim to prepare learners for job roles and help them stay competitive in a workplace.
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New Certifications 2026 Rollout
Microsoft is introducing new AI-based certifications in 2026 to help people learn the skills needed for jobs. These certifications will be released step by step from April to June and will cover different roles like developers, sales professionals, and support engineers. The main focus is on using AI in real work, such as automation, building smart apps, and improving business processes. Microsoft is also updating some existing certifications to make learning easier and more relevant for professionals.
- 2026 timeline of new certification exams announced by Microsoft, showing when each certification will be introduced between April and June.
- In April, the AI Agent Builder Associate (AB-620) and Intelligent Applications Builder Associate (AB-410) begin in beta, followed by the Dynamics 365 Sales AI Consultant Associate (AB-210) in May.
- In June, the Dynamics 365 Contact Center AI Engineer Associate (AB-250) is released in beta, along with an updated version of the Power Platform Fundamentals (PL-900) certification.
| Certification | Details |
|---|---|
| AI Agent Builder Associate (AB‑620) | The AI Agent Builder Associate Certification (Exam AB‑620) is for tech professionals like developers, AI engineers, and architects. It teaches how to build advanced Microsoft Copilot Studio agents that can handle complex tasks, automate workflows, and connect with enterprise systems. Training and the beta exam will be available in April 2026, and the full exam is expected to go live in June 2026. |
| Dynamics 365 Contact Center AI Engineer Associate (AB‑250) | The Dynamics 365 Contact Center AI Engineer Associate (Exam AB‑250) is for contact center engineers and solution pros. It focuses on using AI, Copilot, and agents to build modern contact center solutions that deliver reliable, always‑on service across voice and digital channels. Training and the beta exam will be available in June 2026, with the full exam expected in August 2026. |
| Dynamics 365 Sales AI Consultant Associate (AB‑210) | The Audience: Modern sellers, consultants. It Focus on AI‑powered sales lifecycle, Copilot productivity, opportunity research, agent lifecycle management, secure automation. Timeline: Beta + training May 2026; live exam June 2026. |
| Intelligent Applications Builder Associate (AB‑410) | The Intelligent Applications Builder Associate (Exam AB‑410) is for Power Platform professionals. It teaches how to design AI‑first apps using Copilot and natural language, embed agents into experiences, and manage solutions responsibly with strong governance. Training and the beta exam will be available in April 2026, and the full exam is expected in June 2026. |
| Applied Skills Build an Agent‑First App | Applied Skills: Build an Agent‑First App credential helps learners quickly get started with agent‑first development. It shows you how to build an app that uses a Copilot Studio agent and write prompts that make the agent truly effective. It’s an entry point toward the full Intelligent Applications Builder Associate (AB‑410) certification. Training and the credential are expected to be available in June 2026. |
| Power Platform Fundamentals (PL‑900 Refresh) | The Power Platform Fundamentals Certification (PL‑900) is getting a refresh. It will have a simpler, one‑day instructor‑led course and updated training to match the AI‑powered features of the Microsoft Power Platform. These changes make it easier for beginners to start building confidently. The new training and minor exam updates are planned for June 2026. |
Retirement of Older Certifications
As new certifications are introduced, some older ones are being retired. This is done to keep the certification program aligned with current industry needs and technologies. While these certifications will no longer be available after certain dates in 2026, they are not removed from your profile if you have already earned them. They will remain valid until they expire.
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Author
Anoop C Nair is a Workplace Technology solution architect with 25+ years of experience. Microsoft Certified Trainer. Microsoft MVP from 2015 onwards for consecutive 11+ years! He is a blogger, Speaker, and Founder of HTMD Community and HTMD Conference. His main focus is on Device Management technologies like Intune, Windows, and Cloud PC. He writes about technologies like Intune, SCCM, Windows, Cloud PC, Entra, and Microsoft Security.