Microsoft is advancing its integration of artificial intelligence into gaming by introducing its AI Copilot into the Xbox ecosystem. This new feature, known as Copilot for Gaming, aims to enhance the gaming experience by offering advice, helping players recall their last session's progress, and performing various other tasks. The rollout will initially be available to Xbox Insiders through the Xbox mobile app for testing.
Copilot, which replaced Cortana in 2023 and is already integrated into Windows, will bring a suite of features to Xbox users. At launch, gamers can use Copilot to install games remotely, a function currently available with a single button press on the app. Additionally, it can provide insights into play history, achievements, and game library, and suggest what to play next. Players can interact with Copilot directly on the Xbox app during gameplay, receiving responses similar to those provided by the Windows version.
A key feature highlighted by Microsoft is Copilot's role as a gaming assistant. Players can ask questions about games, such as strategies to defeat bosses or solve puzzles, and Copilot will source answers from online guides, websites, wikis, and forums. This functionality will soon be available on the Xbox app as well. Microsoft is collaborating with game studios to ensure the accuracy of the information provided by Copilot, which will also direct players to the original sources of the information.
Microsoft's vision for Copilot extends beyond the initial features. In future updates, Copilot could serve as a walkthrough assistant, helping players understand basic game functions, remember item locations, and find new ones. It might also provide real-time strategy suggestions in competitive games, explaining tactics and outcomes of engagements. Although these are currently just concepts, Microsoft is committed to deeply integrating Copilot into the Xbox gaming experience. The company plans to work with both first-party and third-party studios to enhance game integration.
Regarding privacy and user control, Microsoft has stated that during the mobile preview, Xbox Insiders can opt out of using Copilot and decide how it interacts with their data. However, the possibility of making Copilot mandatory in the future remains open. Microsoft emphasized its commitment to transparency about data collection, usage, and user choices regarding personal data.
Beyond player-focused features, Microsoft will also present plans for developer usage of Copilot at the upcoming Game Developers Conference, indicating a broader application of AI in gaming.
