Microsoft's AI Copilot is expanding its reach, gearing up to enhance the Xbox gaming experience. Soon, Xbox Insiders will get a sneak peek via the Xbox mobile app. Copilot, already a familiar face on Windows (replacing Cortana in 2023), will bring its AI prowess to gaming, offering a range of helpful features.

Initially, Copilot for gaming will let you install games (a task easily done with a single button on the app already), check your play history, achievements, and game library, and even get game recommendations. Directly within the Xbox app, you'll be able to ask Copilot questions during gameplay, receiving answers similar to its Windows counterpart.

One of the most exciting features is Copilot's role as a gaming assistant. Similar to its PC functionality, you’ll be able to ask questions about games—like how to beat a boss or solve a puzzle—and Copilot will scour the web for answers from various sources, including guides, websites, wikis, and forums. This functionality will soon be available directly through the Xbox app.

“Our goal is to have Copilot for Gaming source the most accurate game knowledge — so we are working with game studios to make sure the information Copilot surfaces reflects their vision, and Copilot will refer players back to the original source of the information.”

Microsoft's ambitions for Copilot extend far beyond the initial features. Future possibilities include using Copilot as a walkthrough assistant, an item locator, a competitive gaming strategist offering real-time tips and analysis, or even a post-game debriefing tool. While these are currently just concepts, Microsoft is committed to deeply integrating Copilot into the Xbox gaming experience, collaborating with both first-party and third-party studios.

Regarding data privacy, Microsoft confirmed that during the Xbox Insider preview, users will have control over their interaction with Copilot, including data access and usage. However, the possibility of Copilot becoming mandatory in the future remains open.

“During this preview on mobile, players will be able to decide how and when they want to interact with Copilot for Gaming, whether it has access to their conversation history, and what it does on their behalf. As we preview and test Copilot for Gaming with players early, we will continue to be transparent about what data we collect, how we use it, and the choices players have around sharing their personal data.”

Beyond player-focused applications, Microsoft will be unveiling its plans for developer usage at the Game Developers Conference next week.