Microsoft Starts Exploration On AI in Gaming Through An Upcoming Xbox AI Chatbot

By Thea Felicity

Apr 02, 2024 10:18 AM EDT

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Microsoft's Xbox logo is seen during the worldwide release of the Xbox Series X gaming console at an electronics store in Tokyo on November 10, 2020.
(Photo : Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images)

According to sources within the company, Microsoft is developing an Xbox AI chatbot, as revealed by The Verge

Currently, the Xbox AI chatbot is being tested by Xbox employees, aiming to streamline user support tasks. In the report, it's described as an "embodied AI character" that engages with users when they seek assistance with Xbox-related questions. 

The chatbot is also linked to Microsoft's support documents for the Xbox network and ecosystem, which means it can address inquiries and even facilitate game refunds directly from Microsoft's support website.

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How Microsoft Xbox AI Chatbot Aligns With Their AI Vision

Haiyan Zhang, the general manager of gaming AI at Xbox, confirmed the existence of this chatbot, stating that it's intended to improve user support experiences by leveraging natural language processing and existing support resources. 

The prototype, internally known as the "Xbox Support Virtual Agent," is being trialed more extensively, hinting at its potential to serve as a comprehensive support solution for all Xbox customers in the future.

This new AI integration is part of Microsoft Gaming's comprehensive approach to incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into various aspects of the Xbox platform and associated developer tools. It goes beyond simply implementing AI for support services, extending into multiple areas such as game content creation, operational tasks, and optimizing device performance.

Interestingly, Microsoft's advancements in AI within the gaming industry are not extensively publicized, but the company's executives have hinted at a grand vision termed "Xbox Everywhere," which was previously reported by The Verge as well. 

This development also came aligned with a rumor that an upcoming PS5 Pro console will feature AI-powered image upscaling technology. The specifics of how AI will manifest in gaming experiences remain subject to ongoing internal deliberations within the company.

But Microsoft vows to catch up with Xbox.

With these developments, it's expected that the upcoming release of a next-generation Xbox console will bring major technological advancements, with AI likely playing a significant role.

READ MORE: Microsoft, OpenAI to Build $100 Billion New Data Center for 'Stargate' AI Supercomputer: Report

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