473441 – Word: Chat with Copilot about selected text

Product:

Copilot, Microsoft 365 Apps

Platform:

Mac, Web, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Launched

Change type:

Links:

Details:

Start a chat with Copilot while text in your document is selected, and Copilot's response will be scoped to what you have selected.

Change Category:
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Scope:
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2024-12-20

updated:
2025-10-09

Docu to Check

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

MS workload name

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

summary for non-techies**

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Direct effects for Operations**

User Experience Disruption
If the Copilot feature is implemented without proper training or user guidance, users may experience confusion or frustration when trying to interact with the new chat functionality, leading to decreased productivity.
   - roles: End Users, Support Staff
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/03/16/introducing-microsoft-365-copilot/, https://www.forbes.com/sites/julietbennettryan/2023/03/17/microsoft-copilot-what-you-need-to-know/?sh=5c1e1c4e1b8e

Integration Issues
Without adequate preparation, the integration of Copilot with existing Word functionalities may lead to software bugs or performance issues, negatively impacting user experience and workflow.
   - roles: IT Operations, End Users
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-365-copilot-blog/what-is-microsoft-365-copilot/ba-p/3731230, https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-copilot-what-it-is-and-how-it-works/

Configutation Options**

XXXXXXX ... paid membership only

explanation for non-techies**

Imagine you're working on a legal document and you need some assistance in refining a particular section. Think of Microsoft Copilot as a knowledgeable colleague who sits right next to you. When you highlight a portion of your text, it's like tapping this colleague on the shoulder and asking for their input specifically on that part. Copilot then provides feedback or suggestions tailored to the selected text, much like how a colleague would offer advice after reading just the part you've pointed out.

This feature is designed to be available across different platforms such as desktop, web, and Mac, making it accessible wherever you are working. It’s like having the same helpful colleague available in your office, at home, or even on the go. The idea is to streamline your workflow by offering context-specific assistance, ensuring that the feedback you receive is relevant to the text you're focused on, without needing to sift through unrelated information. This can be particularly useful in drafting, editing, or even brainstorming new ideas within your documents.