Microsoft is using computer algorithms to detect and block offensive messages on Xbox in a bid to tackle bullying and harassment.

The company said the move was part of its investment in building a positive gaming community, adding that gaming “should be inclusive and welcoming for everyone”.

This means creating experiences and communities that invite everyone to play safely and responsibly, the company said in its announcement. Customisable filters will enable gamers to choose the vocabulary they see in messages from other users, with four levels of filtering ranging from child-friendly through to entirely unfiltered.

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A warning saying “potentially offensive hidden message” will pop up on filtered messages. The ‘friendly’ setting will be applied by default to all child accounts on Xbox, blocking all vocabulary that is deemed to be potentially vulgar or offensive.

The ‘medium’ setting will let some “robust language” through, explained Larry Hyrb, director of programming for Xbox Live.

He said: “Once you have applied the medium filter you’ll notice that you’ll still be able to see things like friendly trash talk between friends but vulgar words that we know are intended to bully or discriminate will be filtered out of your gaming experience.”

The filters will initially cover just text but Microsoft intends to apply them to voice chat as well.

A Microsoft statement read: “Since we launched Xbox Live nearly two decades ago, we’ve been constantly learning and investing in new tools to make Xbox a welcoming and inclusive space to game. This includes creating Community Standards for Xbox, which complements our Code of Conduct.

“It’s our responsibility to ensure gamers of all walks of life feel welcome on our platforms, and we’re proud to lead the industry with our customisable family settings on Xbox. Now, we’re taking the next step in this responsible gaming journey by rolling out player-centric text filters on console.”

The text filters are designed to be additive to the existing work Microsoft has done to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience on Xbox, the statement added.

“Ultimately our vision is to supplement our existing efforts and leverage our company efforts in AI and machine learning technology to provide filtration across all types of content on Xbox Live, delivering control to each and every individual player. Your feedback is more important than ever as we continue to evolve this experience and make Xbox a safe, welcome and inclusive place to game.”

The text filters have already been introduced to Xbox Insiders, and are expected to be rolled out to all other Xbox users later this autumn.