487852 – Microsoft Copilot (Microsoft 365): Realtime voice interactions in Word and PowerPoint

Product:

Copilot, Defender, Microsoft 365 Apps

Platform:

Android, iOS, Web, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Rolling out

Change type:

Links:

Details:

Use your voice to talk with Copilot, interact in-real time, and understand the content within your document or presentation.

Change Category:
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-05-14

updated:
2025-09-30

Docu to Check

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MS workload name

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summary for non-techies**

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Direct effects for Operations**

Voice Interaction Errors
If users are not adequately trained on how to use voice commands effectively, it may lead to misunderstandings and incorrect document edits or presentations, negatively impacting productivity.
   - roles: End Users, Content Creators
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/introducing-microsoft-copilot-in-word-and-powerpoint/

User Frustration and Resistance
Without proper preparation and change management, users may feel overwhelmed by the new voice interaction feature, leading to frustration and resistance to adopting the technology.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support
   - references: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2023/10/02/the-impact-of-ai-on-business-and-how-to-prepare-for-it/

Configutation Options**

XXXXXXX ... paid membership only

explanation for non-techies**

Imagine you are in a meeting, and instead of taking notes by hand or typing furiously on your laptop, you have a personal assistant who listens to everything being discussed and helps you create a summary or a presentation. This is similar to what Microsoft Copilot offers in Word and PowerPoint.

With the new feature of real-time voice interactions, you can now speak directly to Copilot while working on your documents or presentations. It's like having a conversation with a colleague who is helping you draft a report or design a slide deck. You can ask Copilot to add content, format text, or even explain parts of the document, just by using your voice.

Think of it like using a voice-activated virtual assistant, such as Siri or Alexa, but specifically designed to assist you with your work tasks in Microsoft 365 apps. Instead of typing out your requests or commands, you simply speak them, and Copilot understands and executes them in real-time. This can be particularly useful when you are multitasking or when your hands are occupied.

This technology aims to make the process of creating and editing documents more efficient and intuitive. It allows you to focus more on the content and less on the mechanics of using the software. By integrating voice interaction, Microsoft is providing a tool that adapts to the way you naturally communicate, making it easier to produce high-quality work without being bogged down by technical details.

In essence, Microsoft Copilot acts as a smart collaborator, offering assistance and insights while you work, much like having a knowledgeable partner who is always ready to help, listen, and respond to your needs.