Microsoft launches Scout AI agent

Microsoft has officially introduced Microsoft Scout, its first 'Autopilot' AI agent, at Microsoft Build 2026. Microsoft Scout is an always-on, autonomous assistant designed to operate continuously across Microsoft applications like Microsoft, Microsoft, OneDrive, and SharePoint. Unlike traditional AI assistants, Microsoft Scout remains active in the background, monitoring signals, reacting to triggers, and resuming tasks without user initiation. It is powered by OpenClaw open-source technology and Microsoft's proprietary Work IQ layer, which allows it to build persistent context and learn user priorities. Key capabilities include scheduling meetings, flagging high-priority items, blocking calendar time, and surfacing risks. Microsoft Scout is architected with enterprise-grade security, operating under its own governed Microsoft, with credential protection and enforcement of Microsoft policies. Microsoft is also contributing policy conformance capabilities back to OpenClaw. Microsoft Scout is currently in private preview for select Frontier program customers and Microsoft employees, requiring Frontier enrollment, Microsoft policy configuration, opt-in attestation, and a GitHub Copilot Business or Enterprise license.