Microsoft’s new Gaming Copilot AI, automatically installed on Windows 11, has come under fire for its data collection practices. Users have discovered that the AI captures screenshots of gameplay by default to train Microsoft’s AI models, raising significant privacy concerns among gamers. While the feature can be disabled, its opt-out nature has drawn criticism.
Key Takeaways
- Gaming Copilot automatically captures screenshots of gameplay for AI training.
- This setting is enabled by default on Windows 11 PCs.
- Users can disable this feature through the Xbox Game Bar settings.
- Concerns have been raised about potential privacy violations and NDA breaches.
Automatic Gameplay Capture for AI Training
Recent reports indicate that Microsoft’s Gaming Copilot, integrated into Windows 11, is actively collecting gameplay data. A user on the ResetEra forums discovered that the AI was sending screenshots of their gaming sessions back to Microsoft. This data is reportedly used to further train Microsoft’s artificial intelligence models. The feature is enabled by default, meaning that unless users actively opt-out, their gameplay is being used for AI development without explicit consent.
Privacy Implications and User Discovery
The discovery was made by analyzing network traffic, which revealed that Gaming Copilot was transmitting extensive data, including screenshots of an unreleased game being played under a non-disclosure agreement. This raises concerns not only about general privacy but also about the potential for users to inadvertently breach confidentiality agreements. While Microsoft promotes Gaming Copilot as an assistant to help players improve performance with tips and walkthroughs, the extent of its data collection was not clearly disclosed.
How to Disable the Feature
Fortunately, users concerned about their privacy can disable this data collection feature. The setting can be found within the Xbox Game Bar. Users need to navigate to Game Bar, then to Gaming Copilot settings, click the settings gear icon, and finally access Privacy settings. Here, they can opt out of allowing Gaming Copilot to train on their gameplay data. Options for vocal conversation training and personalization data collection are also available in the same privacy settings menu, though these were not defaulted to ‘on’ in initial checks.
Broader Context of Microsoft’s AI Push
This incident occurs amidst a period of increased scrutiny for Microsoft’s gaming division, which has seen price increases for Xbox consoles and Game Pass, alongside layoffs and a greater emphasis on AI development. The automatic activation of gameplay data collection for AI training adds to a growing unease among users regarding the integration of AI features into Windows and other Microsoft services.
