Microsoft has introduced Copilot Tasks — an AI tool for performing tasks in the background.

Microsoft has announced Copilot Tasks, a new artificial intelligence-powered tool capable not only of responding to user queries but also of autonomously executing tasks in the background. This solution is part of Microsoft’s strategy to enter the AI agent market.

In recent months, AI agents have gained significant popularity: notable examples include OpenAI Codex and Claude Code for developers, as well as consumer products like Perplexity and Gemini on Android devices.

Copilot Tasks is designed as a “to-do list that completes itself.” Users describe a task in natural language, after which Copilot formulates an action plan and begins executing it. If necessary, users can modify or refine the plan. A key feature of the tool is that it operates in the background, using its own virtual computer, browser, and access to various applications and services.

Copilot Tasks can perform a wide range of actions: searching for information on the internet, coordinating work between applications, creating documents, managing schedules, sending emails, contacting companies, and performing other tasks. It also supports recurring and scheduled jobs.

If a task involves critical actions, such as making payments or sending messages to other people, Copilot Tasks requests user confirmation, allowing users to review, pause, or cancel the execution.

Microsoft notes that similar functionality can be achieved using other AI tools through manual agent configuration, but Copilot Tasks offers a more cohesive and seamless user experience.

Currently, Copilot Tasks is launching as a research preview and is available to a limited number of users. Over the coming weeks, Microsoft plans to expand the testing program, and interested parties can sign up for the waitlist.

Source: neowin.net