Microsoft is set to enhance the Xbox gaming experience with the introduction of its AI-powered Copilot, which will soon be available for Xbox Insiders through the Xbox mobile app. This innovative feature, which replaced Cortana in 2023, is already integrated into Windows and is now making its way into the gaming world. At launch, Copilot for gaming will offer several functionalities, including the ability to install games on your Xbox, provide insights into your play history, achievements, and game library, and even suggest what to play next. Additionally, you can interact with Copilot directly on the Xbox app during gameplay, receiving answers in a manner similar to its current operation on Windows.
One of the standout features highlighted by Microsoft is Copilot's role as a gaming assistant. You can ask it questions about games, such as strategies to defeat a boss or solve a puzzle, and it will pull answers from various online resources like guides, websites, wikis, and forums. This functionality will soon extend to the Xbox app, making it easier for gamers to get the help they need. Microsoft is committed to ensuring the accuracy of the information provided by Copilot, collaborating with game studios to reflect their vision and directing players to the original sources of information.
Microsoft's vision for Copilot doesn't stop at these initial features. In future updates, they are considering expanding its capabilities to include acting as a walkthrough assistant, helping players remember where items are left in games, and suggesting where to find new ones. Additionally, Copilot could serve as a real-time strategy advisor in competitive games, offering tips to counter opponents' moves and explaining game dynamics. While these are currently just ideas, Microsoft is keen on integrating Copilot deeply into the Xbox gaming experience, working with both first-party and third-party studios to achieve this.
During the preview phase on mobile, Xbox Insiders will have the option to opt out of using Copilot, control its access to their conversation history, and decide what actions it can perform on their behalf. Microsoft emphasizes transparency regarding data collection and usage, ensuring players are informed about their choices concerning personal data. However, the possibility of Copilot becoming a mandatory feature in the future remains open.
Beyond player-focused applications, Microsoft is also exploring how Copilot can benefit game developers. More details on this aspect will be shared at the upcoming Game Developers Conference.