501277 – Microsoft Copilot (Microsoft 365): Updates to OneDrive file browsing experience in the Microsoft 365 Copilot app on iPad and iPhone

Product:

Copilot, Microsoft 365 Copilot, OneDrive

Platform:

iOS, World tenant

Status:

Rolling out

Change type:

Links:

Details:

Users on the Microsoft 365 Copilot app for iPad and iPhone devices will be directed to the standalone OneDrive app for file browsing and management. While users can still access their most recent files and search for OneDrive content within the Microsoft 365 Copilot app, advanced actions like folder navigation, permission settings, downloads, and deletions must be done in the OneDrive app.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-08-28

updated:
2025-10-24

Docu to Check

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MS workload name

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

User Experience Disruption
Users may experience confusion and frustration due to the need to switch between the Microsoft 365 Copilot app and the OneDrive app for file management tasks, leading to a fragmented workflow.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support Staff
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/whats-new-in-microsoft-365-copilot/

Increased Training Needs
The change may necessitate additional training for users to familiarize themselves with the new file management process, impacting productivity during the transition period.
   - roles: End Users, Training Coordinators
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/whats-new-in-microsoft-365-copilot/

Potential Data Management Issues
Users may inadvertently mismanage files or permissions due to the split functionality, leading to potential data loss or unauthorized access.
   - roles: End Users, Data Compliance Officers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/whats-new-in-microsoft-365-copilot/

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Enhanced User Training for OneDrive
With the shift to using the standalone OneDrive app for advanced file management, there is an opportunity to provide targeted training sessions for users. This will help them navigate the new system effectively, reducing frustration and increasing productivity.
   - next-steps: Develop a training program that includes tutorials, workshops, and Q&A sessions focusing on OneDrive's functionalities. Schedule sessions and communicate availability to all users.
   - roles: IT Support, Training Coordinators, End Users
   - references: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/onedrive, https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2021/03/02/introducing-onedrive-in-microsoft-365-copilot/ " target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2021/03/02/introducing-onedrive-in-microsoft-365-copilot/

Streamlined IT Support for OneDrive Issues
As users transition to using the OneDrive app for file management, there will likely be an increase in support requests. Establishing a streamlined support process can help IT resolve issues more efficiently, improving user experience.
   - next-steps: Create a dedicated support channel for OneDrive-related inquiries and issues. Train IT staff on common OneDrive problems and solutions to expedite resolution times.
   - roles: IT Support, Helpdesk Staff, End Users
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/onedrive-developer-blog/announcing-the-onedrive-developer-community/ba-p/1934730, https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2021/03/02/introducing-onedrive-in-microsoft-365-copilot/ " target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2021/03/02/introducing-onedrive-in-microsoft-365-copilot/

Improved Integration of OneDrive with Microsoft 365 Apps
The separation of file management into the OneDrive app presents an opportunity to enhance integration between OneDrive and other Microsoft 365 applications, creating a more seamless user experience.
   - next-steps: Gather user feedback on the current integration and identify pain points. Work with Microsoft to explore potential enhancements that can be made to the integration between OneDrive and other apps.
   - roles: Product Managers, IT Administrators, End Users
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2021/03/02/introducing-onedrive-in-microsoft-365-copilot/, https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=Copilot

Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

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