Microsoft has launched Microsoft Scout, a new artificial intelligence agent designed to autonomously manage workplace tasks across Microsoft 365 applications.
Unlike traditional AI chatbots that respond only when prompted, Scout operates continuously in the background, monitoring workflows and taking action on behalf of users within approved organisational policies.
The AI agent integrates with services including Outlook, Teams, OneDrive and SharePoint, allowing it to access emails, calendars, chats, documents and contacts.
According to Microsoft, Scout can coordinate meetings across different time zones, schedule focus sessions, prepare briefing materials and identify workflow bottlenecks before they become major issues.
A central component of the platform is Work IQ, a system that learns user habits and priorities over time to anticipate future needs and provide proactive assistance.
Microsoft said Scout operates through a governed identity managed by Microsoft Entra, enabling organisations to monitor AI actions while maintaining security and compliance requirements.
The company has begun rolling out Scout to select customers through a private preview programme and participants in its Frontier initiative.
