Microsoft Expands Copilot Features Across Microsoft 365 Apps

Microsoft has announced the rollout of its Copilot Chat and agents within core Microsoft 365 applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote. This update introduces a sidebar feature that provides real-time assistance tailored to the specific document or spreadsheet users are working on. Seth Patton, General Manager of Microsoft 365 Copilot product marketing, emphasized that this feature is secure and content-aware, enhancing user productivity without requiring an additional Microsoft 365 Copilot license. The basic Copilot Chat is included at no extra cost for Microsoft 365 business users, while those with a paid Copilot license can access advanced functionalities.

The VergeMicrosoft brings Copilot Chat to Office apps, like Word, Excel, and moreCopilot App will install automatically on Windows for many users, but there are exceptionsThe Irish TimesHow to disable Microsoft Copilot in Windows 11

The Copilot Chat feature allows users to draft documents, analyze data, and summarize content seamlessly. It also supports multi-image uploads and offers enhanced input capabilities for longer prompts. Users with a Microsoft 365 Copilot license benefit from advanced features, including AI-powered search and project management tools, as well as priority access during peak usage times. Microsoft has integrated GPT-5 technology into Copilot, promising faster and more structured responses, which have reportedly improved user satisfaction scores by 11%.

Microsoft brings Copilot Chat to Office apps, like Word, Excel, and moreThe VergeThe Irish TimesCopilot App will install automatically on Windows for many users, but there are exceptionsHow to disable Microsoft Copilot in Windows 11

In addition to the updates in Microsoft 365 apps, Microsoft plans to automatically install the Copilot app on many Windows systems in the coming months. This installation will occur in the background for users who have Microsoft 365 applications installed. However, users in the European Economic Area will not have the app installed automatically. Microsoft has provided instructions for users who wish to disable this automatic installation through the Microsoft 365 Apps admin center or via Group Policy Editor for Windows Pro users.

Copilot App will install automatically on Windows for many users, but there are exceptionsThe VergeMicrosoft brings Copilot Chat to Office apps, like Word, Excel, and moreHow to disable Microsoft Copilot in Windows 11The Irish Times

While the automatic installation of the Copilot app has raised concerns about user autonomy, Microsoft has outlined options for users to disable or remove the feature if desired. Users can turn off Copilot in Windows 11 settings or through the Group Policy Editor. This flexibility aims to address potential user discomfort with AI integration in their workflows.

Copilot App will install automatically on Windows for many users, but there are exceptionsHow to disable Microsoft Copilot in Windows 11Microsoft brings Copilot Chat to Office apps, like Word, Excel, and moreThe VergeThe Irish Times

Microsoft has positioned Copilot as a vital tool for enhancing productivity across its suite of applications. The company stated, “Copilot Chat is secure AI chat grounded in the web—and now, it’s available in the Microsoft 365 apps,” highlighting its commitment to integrating AI in a user-friendly manner.

The VergeMicrosoft brings Copilot Chat to Office apps, like Word, Excel, and moreCopilot App will install automatically on Windows for many users, but there are exceptionsThe Irish TimesHow to disable Microsoft Copilot in Windows 11

As Microsoft continues to enhance its AI capabilities, further updates and features are expected to roll out in the coming months. The company is also preparing to bundle its sales, service, and finance Copilots into the Microsoft 365 Copilot subscription, potentially reducing costs for businesses that utilize these tools.

The VergeMicrosoft brings Copilot Chat to Office apps, like Word, Excel, and moreCopilot App will install automatically on Windows for many users, but there are exceptionsThe Irish TimesHow to disable Microsoft Copilot in Windows 11

• “Copilot Chat is secure AI chat grounded in the web—and now, it’s available in the Microsoft 365 apps,” — Seth Patton, General Manager of Microsoft 365 Copilot product marketing.

The Verge

• “Microsoft writes: "Windows devices with the Microsoft 365 desktop client apps will automatically install the Microsoft 365 Copilot app.” — Microsoft Statement.

Copilot App will install automatically on Windows for many users, but there are exceptions