At Build 2026, Microsoft introduced Microsoft Scout as its first autonomous “Autopilot” agent designed to work continuously on the Windows desktop. Scout integrates with files, commands, browser functions, and Microsoft 365 applications, operating under its own Microsoft Entra identity. The agent runs as an always-on desktop application for Windows 11 and macOS, handling tasks autonomously based on user preferences and permissions. Scout operates with built-in safety controls that define its capabilities and limitations, running commands, driving browser functions, and interacting with Microsoft 365 only within permissions granted by the user or administrator. Build 2026 also featured announcements positioning Microsoft as a leader in agentic AI development, emphasizing that agents represent the next generation of AI interfaces moving beyond chatbots. The announcement positions Microsoft against competitors including Anthropic, OpenAI, and others. Scout’s development involved partnerships with academic institutions and external researchers, with Microsoft emphasizing that Scout includes safeguards designed to prevent misuse or unintended consequences.