Microsoft’s Gaming Copilot AI: What You Need to Know
Recent developments have raised concerns regarding Microsoft’s Gaming Copilot AI, which is automatically installed on Windows 11 PCs. A user on ResetEra discovered that the AI was sending screenshots and gameplay data back to Microsoft to enhance its AI models, and this feature is enabled by default. Unless users actively disable it, their gaming experiences are being utilized for AI training, often without their full awareness.
Upon inspecting my own device, I found the functionality activated automatically, prompting me to turn it off. In addition to capturing gameplay footage, the Gaming Copilot can also record voice conversations during gaming sessions. However, this particular feature is not enabled by default, as confirmed during my settings check. Furthermore, the system is designed to collect data on user preferences, memory, and any interactions with the Copilot service itself.
How to Adjust Your Privacy Settings
If you wish to retain your privacy while gaming, it is possible to modify these settings. To do so:
- Open the Game Bar.
- Navigate to ‘Gaming Copilot.’
- Click on the Settings gear icon located in the bottom left corner.
- Access the Privacy settings to turn off the data-sharing options.
This process will ensure that your gameplay data is not used for AI training unless you expressly allow it.
Microsoft’s Struggles with Player Relations
Amid these privacy concerns, Microsoft has faced increasing frustration from gamers. Over the past month, the company has raised the price of Xbox Series consoles in the US for the second time this year, alongside a similar increase for Xbox development kits. Moreover, Xbox Game Pass has seen a staggering price increase of 50%, while the company has also halted discounts and reward programs related to Xbox titles and services.
Adding to these challenges, there are reports that a new version of Cloud Gaming may soon be introduced, potentially incorporating advertising—a move that is likely to upset many users further.
In light of these developments, the relationship between gamers and Microsoft appears to be increasingly strained. The decision to leverage user gameplay data for AI purposes, often without explicit consent, certainly does not foster goodwill, especially following significant layoffs within the company that seem to pivot towards a heavier reliance on AI technology.
As Microsoft navigates these turbulent waters, staying informed about the implications of these changes and actively managing your privacy settings is more important than ever.
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