Scout AI Agent is a desktop AI application from Microsoft for Windows and macOS.
Microsoft Scout is a new desktop AI application from Microsoft that can perform actions on your behalf across files, the command line, browsers, and Microsoft 365. It can read and write files in your workspace, run command-line commands, control your browser, query Microsoft 365 data, and operate autonomously in the background. Simply describe what you need through conversation, and Microsoft Scout will carry out the corresponding actions — pausing to ask for your consent before performing any sensitive operations.
Microsoft Scout runs on your desktop with access to the file systems and shell you have approved, while also connecting to your Microsoft 365 account. This means it can edit code in your workspace, run builds, send results via email, and schedule follow-up meetings — all within a single conversation.
You can control what Microsoft Scout is allowed to do through a detailed permissions system:
Microsoft Scout remembers your preferences and choices across conversations. For complex tasks, it can spin up dedicated sub-agents that run in parallel and report back upon completion.
Microsoft Scout combines local and cloud capabilities in a single desktop application:
What can Microsoft Scout do for me?
It can read, write, and search files in your workspace directory, as well as run shell commands, builds, tests, scripts, and more directly on your machine.
How is Microsoft Scout different from Copilot Chat?
Microsoft Scout is a local desktop AI application that performs actions on your computer and across your Microsoft 365 data, whereas Copilot Chat is a cloud-based conversational application designed to generate content and insights.
What is Heartbeat mode?
Heartbeat mode is an autonomous background mode in which Microsoft Scout periodically runs prompts without requiring you to send a message. You can configure the following:
What is Automation?
Automation tasks are standalone tasks triggered on a schedule or by defined conditions. Unlike the Heartbeat mode — which uses a single recurring prompt — Automation tasks are self-contained, each with their own schedule, prompt, and optional multi-step workflow.
Can Microsoft Scout delegate work to sub-agents?
Yes. Microsoft Scout can spin up specialized sub-agents that run in the background and report back with their results upon completion.
Can Microsoft Scout run on mobile devices?
No. Microsoft Scout is a desktop application for Windows and macOS. It requires access to the local file system, shell, and browser control capabilities, none of which are available on mobile platforms.
