Microsoft reveals Scout, its first "Autopilot" (www.techradar.com)

Microsoft has announced the launch of Scout, an innovative AI agent that represents the first in its new line of "Autopilots." Unveiled by CEO Satya Nadella at the Microsoft Build 2026 conference, Scout is designed to operate autonomously within Microsoft 365 applications, performing tasks in the background without user prompts. This marks a significant advancement in AI functionality, aiming to alleviate tedious work and enhance productivity by allowing users to focus on more important activities. Autopilots are compared to enterprise-grade versions of existing AI tools, with features that enable them to learn user preferences and act independently while adhering to compliance standards set by organizations. Users can personalize their Autopilots, defining their identity, communication style, and permissible actions. Scout’s capabilities include monitoring inboxes and Teams messages, keeping track of calendar events, and preparing users for meetings, allowing for a seamless integration in daily workflows. As Microsoft develops this technology further, it plans to introduce additional agents and customization options, signifying a transformative shift in how AI can assist professionals in their work.