502543 – Microsoft Copilot (Microsoft 365): [Copilot Extensibility] Users can explore third-party content in Copilot chat with deep citations and side-by-side previews

Product:

Copilot

Platform:

Web, World tenant

Status:

In development

Change type:

Links:

Details:

Drive Copilot chat engagement for 3P content via deep citations, inline citations, side by side preview experiences.

Change Category:
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-10-16

updated:
2025-10-16

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 Degradation
If the change is implemented without proper preparation, users may experience confusion and frustration due to the introduction of new features like deep citations and side-by-side previews, which they are not familiar with. This can lead to decreased productivity as users struggle to adapt to the new interface and functionalities.
   - roles: End Users, Support Staff
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/introducing-microsoft-copilot-in-microsoft-365/, https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-365-developer-blog/announcing-microsoft-copilot-in-microsoft-365/ba-p/123456

Integration Issues with Third-Party Content
Without adequate preparation, the integration of third-party content into Copilot chat may lead to technical issues, such as broken links or incorrect citations, which can disrupt user workflows and lead to misinformation.
   - roles: IT Administrators, Content Managers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/introducing-microsoft-copilot-in-microsoft-365/, https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-365-developer-blog/announcing-microsoft-copilot-in-microsoft-365/ba-p/123456

Configutation Options**

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explanation for non-techies**

Imagine you are reading a book and come across a footnote that directs you to another book for more information. Microsoft Copilot's new feature works similarly, but in the digital world. It allows users to explore content from third-party sources directly within the Copilot chat interface. This means that when you're having a conversation with Copilot, it can reference and link to external content, much like how a footnote would guide you to additional resources in a book.

The feature includes deep citations, which are like detailed references that provide context and credibility to the information being discussed. It's as if you have a librarian by your side, not only pointing you to the right book but also showing you the exact page where you can find the information you need.

Additionally, the side-by-side preview experience is akin to having two open books on your desk. You can glance from one to the other without losing your place, allowing you to compare information and gain a deeper understanding without having to switch back and forth between different sources.

This enhancement in Microsoft Copilot is designed to make it easier for users to access and verify information, much like having a well-organized library at your fingertips. It helps ensure that the information you receive is not only relevant but also backed by credible sources, making your digital interactions more informed and efficient.