check before: 2025-09-15
Product:
Copilot, Microsoft 365 suite
Platform:
Online, US Instances, Web, Windows Desktop, World tenant
Status:
Rolling out
Change type:
New feature, Updated message, User impact
Links:
Details:
Summary:
Starting October 2025, Microsoft Copilot Chat will add a Tools feature in the prompt box, offering easy access to task-specific AI capabilities based on user licenses. Rollout completes by November 2025, requires no admin action, and enhances feature discoverability and usability.
Details:
Updated November 6, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
Beginning in October, we're introducing a new Tools feature in the Copilot Chat prompt box. Tools acts as a lightweight entry point into high-value, task-specific Copilot features and capabilities directly from the prompt box. By selecting Tools, users get a menu where they can easily discover and trigger the right Copilot feature or capability for their current task, while also providing consistent interactions across tools. Based on the user's license, Tools provides easy access to features and capabilities like Researcher, Analyst, Pages, and image generation.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap 497298.
When this will happen
General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rollout in October 2025 (previously late September 2025) and expect to complete by end of November 2025 (previously mid-October 2025).
Change Category:
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only
Scope:
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only
Release Phase:
General Availability
Created:
2025-07-26
updated:
2025-11-08
Task Type
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only
Docu to Check
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only
MS How does it affect me
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only
MS Preperations
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only
MS Urgency
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only
MS workload name
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only
linked item details
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only
Pictures
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only
summary for non-techies**
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only
Direct effects for Operations**
User Confusion
Users may be confused by the new Tools feature if they are not informed about its functionalities, leading to inefficient task completion.
- roles: End Users, Support Staff
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=497298
Increased Support Requests
The introduction of the Tools feature without prior training may lead to an increase in support requests as users seek help navigating the new functionalities.
- roles: Support Staff, IT Helpdesk
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=497298
Reduced Productivity
Without preparation, users may struggle to utilize the new Tools feature effectively, resulting in reduced productivity during the transition period.
- roles: End Users, Team Leaders
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=497298
Configutation Options**
XXXXXXX ... paid membership only
Opportunities**
Enhanced User Training and Documentation
With the introduction of the new Tools feature in Copilot Chat, there is an opportunity to enhance user training and documentation to ensure that employees can effectively utilize the new capabilities. This can lead to improved productivity and user satisfaction as users become more adept at using AI tools for their tasks.
- next-steps: Develop and distribute updated training materials that highlight the new Tools feature and its functionalities. Schedule training sessions or webinars to demonstrate the new features to users.
- roles: Training Coordinators, IT Support Staff, Department Managers
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=497298
Feedback Mechanism for Continuous Improvement
Implementing a feedback mechanism can help gather user experiences and suggestions regarding the new Tools feature. This can provide insights into user needs and preferences, enabling continuous improvement of IT services and user experience.
- next-steps: Create a survey or feedback form that users can fill out after using the new Tools feature. Analyze the feedback to identify areas for improvement and communicate findings to relevant teams.
- roles: Product Managers, User Experience Designers, IT Administrators
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=497298
Integration with Existing IT Tools
Exploring the integration of the new Tools feature with existing IT tools and workflows can streamline processes and enhance overall efficiency. This integration can facilitate smoother transitions between tasks and improve user experience.
- next-steps: Evaluate current IT tools and workflows to identify integration points with the new Tools feature. Collaborate with software vendors or development teams to implement necessary integrations.
- roles: IT Operations Managers, Software Developers, Business Analysts
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=497298
Potentional Risks**
XXXXXXX ... paid membership only
Data Protection**
XXXXXXX ... paid membership only
IT Security**
XXXXXXX ... paid membership only
Hypothetical Work Council Statement**
XXXXXXX ... paid membership only
DPIA Draft**
XXXXXXX ... paid membership only
explanation for non-techies**
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only
** AI generated content. This information must be reviewed before use.
a free basic plan is required to see more details. Sign up here
A cloudsocut.one plan is required to see all the changed details. If you are already a customer, choose login.
If you are new to cloudscout.one please choose a plan.
change history
| Date | Property | old | new |
| 2025-11-08 | MC Messages | Updated September 24, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
Beginning mid-August 2025, we're introducing a new Tools feature in the Copilot Chat prompt box. Tools acts as a lightweight entry point into high-value, task-specific Copilot features and capabilities directly from the prompt box. By selecting Tools, users get a menu where they can easily discover and trigger the right Copilot feature or capability for their current task, while also providing consistent interactions across tools. Based on the user's license, Tools provides easy access to features and capabilities like Researcher, Analyst, Pages, and image generation. This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap 497298. When this will happen General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rollout late September 2025 (previously mid-September) and expect to complete by mid-October 2025 (previously late September). | Updated November 6, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
Beginning in October, we're introducing a new Tools feature in the Copilot Chat prompt box. Tools acts as a lightweight entry point into high-value, task-specific Copilot features and capabilities directly from the prompt box. By selecting Tools, users get a menu where they can easily discover and trigger the right Copilot feature or capability for their current task, while also providing consistent interactions across tools. Based on the user's license, Tools provides easy access to features and capabilities like Researcher, Analyst, Pages, and image generation. This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap 497298. When this will happen General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rollout in October 2025 (previously late September 2025) and expect to complete by end of November 2025 (previously mid-October 2025). |
| 2025-11-08 | MC Last Updated | 09/24/2025 18:01:00 | 2025-11-08T00:41:31Z |
| 2025-11-08 | MC Summary | Starting late September 2025, Microsoft Copilot Chat will feature a new Tools button offering easy access to task-specific AI capabilities based on user licenses. This improves feature discoverability and usability, requires no admin setup, and will complete rollout by mid-October 2025. | Starting October 2025, Microsoft Copilot Chat will add a Tools feature in the prompt box, offering easy access to task-specific AI capabilities based on user licenses. Rollout completes by November 2025, requires no admin action, and enhances feature discoverability and usability. |
| 2025-09-24 | MC Last Updated | 09/03/2025 22:02:41 | 2025-09-24T18:01:00Z |
| 2025-09-24 | MC Messages | Updated September 3, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
Beginning mid-August 2025, we're introducing a new Tools feature in the Copilot Chat prompt box. Tools acts as a lightweight entry point into high-value, task-specific Copilot features and capabilities directly from the prompt box. By selecting Tools, users get a menu where they can easily discover and trigger the right Copilot feature or capability for their current task, while also providing consistent interactions across tools. Based on the user's license, Tools provides easy access to features and capabilities like Researcher, Analyst, Pages, and image generation. This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap 497298. When this will happen General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rollout mid-September 2025 (previously late August) and expect to complete by late September 2025 (previously early September). | Updated September 24, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
Beginning mid-August 2025, we're introducing a new Tools feature in the Copilot Chat prompt box. Tools acts as a lightweight entry point into high-value, task-specific Copilot features and capabilities directly from the prompt box. By selecting Tools, users get a menu where they can easily discover and trigger the right Copilot feature or capability for their current task, while also providing consistent interactions across tools. Based on the user's license, Tools provides easy access to features and capabilities like Researcher, Analyst, Pages, and image generation. This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap 497298. When this will happen General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rollout late September 2025 (previously mid-September) and expect to complete by mid-October 2025 (previously late September). |
| 2025-09-24 | MC End Time | 11/03/2025 08:00:00 | 2025-11-24T08:00:00Z |
| 2025-09-24 | MC Summary | Starting mid-September 2025, Microsoft Copilot Chat will feature a new Tools button offering easy access to task-specific AI capabilities based on user licenses. This improves feature discoverability and usability, requires no admin setup, and rollout will complete by late September 2025. | Starting late September 2025, Microsoft Copilot Chat will feature a new Tools button offering easy access to task-specific AI capabilities based on user licenses. This improves feature discoverability and usability, requires no admin setup, and will complete rollout by mid-October 2025. |
| 2025-09-04 | MC Last Updated | 08/21/2025 15:38:23 | 2025-09-03T22:02:41Z |
| 2025-09-04 | MC Messages | Updated August 21, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
Beginning mid-August 2025, we're introducing a new Tools feature in the Copilot Chat prompt box. Tools acts as a lightweight entry point into high-value, task-specific Copilot features and capabilities directly from the prompt box. By selecting Tools, users get a menu where they can easily discover and trigger the right Copilot feature or capability for their current task, while also providing consistent interactions across tools. Based on the user's license, Tools provides easy access to features and capabilities like Researcher, Analyst, Pages, and image generation. When this will happen General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rollout late August 2025 (previously mid-August) and expect to complete by early September 2025 (previously late August). | Updated September 3, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
Beginning mid-August 2025, we're introducing a new Tools feature in the Copilot Chat prompt box. Tools acts as a lightweight entry point into high-value, task-specific Copilot features and capabilities directly from the prompt box. By selecting Tools, users get a menu where they can easily discover and trigger the right Copilot feature or capability for their current task, while also providing consistent interactions across tools. Based on the user's license, Tools provides easy access to features and capabilities like Researcher, Analyst, Pages, and image generation. This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap 497298. When this will happen General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rollout mid-September 2025 (previously late August) and expect to complete by late September 2025 (previously early September). |
| 2025-09-04 | MC Summary | Starting late August 2025, a new Tools feature will appear in the Microsoft Copilot Chat prompt box, offering easy access to task-specific AI capabilities based on user licenses. It enhances feature discoverability, requires no admin setup, and rollout will complete by early September 2025. | Starting mid-September 2025, Microsoft Copilot Chat will feature a new Tools button offering easy access to task-specific AI capabilities based on user licenses. This improves feature discoverability and usability, requires no admin setup, and rollout will complete by late September 2025. |
| 2025-09-04 | MC End Time | 10/20/2025 09:00:00 | 2025-11-03T08:00:00Z |
| 2025-09-04 | MC prepare | https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=497298 | |
| 2025-08-22 | MC MessageTagNames | New feature, User impact | Updated message, New feature, User impact |
| 2025-08-22 | MC Summary | Starting mid-August 2025, Microsoft Copilot Chat will feature a new Tools button offering easy access to task-specific AI capabilities based on user licenses. This default-enabled update enhances feature discoverability without requiring admin action; organizations should inform users and update training as needed. | Starting late August 2025, a new Tools feature will appear in the Microsoft Copilot Chat prompt box, offering easy access to task-specific AI capabilities based on user licenses. It enhances feature discoverability, requires no admin setup, and rollout will complete by early September 2025. |
| 2025-08-22 | MC Last Updated | 07/30/2025 23:57:19 | 2025-08-21T15:38:23Z |
| 2025-08-22 | MC Messages | Beginning mid-August 2025, we're introducing a new Tools feature in the Copilot Chat prompt box. Tools acts as a lightweight entry point into high-value, task-specific Copilot features and capabilities directly from the prompt box. By selecting Tools, users get a menu where they can easily discover and trigger the right Copilot feature or capability for their current task, while also providing consistent interactions across tools. Based on the user's license, Tools provides easy access to features and capabilities like Researcher, Analyst, Pages, and image generation.
When this will happen General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rollout mid-August 2025 and expect to complete by late August 2025. | Updated August 21, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
Beginning mid-August 2025, we're introducing a new Tools feature in the Copilot Chat prompt box. Tools acts as a lightweight entry point into high-value, task-specific Copilot features and capabilities directly from the prompt box. By selecting Tools, users get a menu where they can easily discover and trigger the right Copilot feature or capability for their current task, while also providing consistent interactions across tools. Based on the user's license, Tools provides easy access to features and capabilities like Researcher, Analyst, Pages, and image generation. When this will happen General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rollout late August 2025 (previously mid-August) and expect to complete by early September 2025 (previously late August). |
| 2025-08-22 | MC Title | New Tools feature coming to the Microsoft Copilot Chat prompt box | (Updated) New Tools feature coming to the Microsoft Copilot Chat prompt box |
| 2025-08-22 | MC End Time | 10/01/2025 09:00:00 | 2025-10-20T09:00:00Z |
| 2025-07-31 | MC Last Updated | 07/26/2025 00:32:42 | 2025-07-30T23:57:19Z |
| 2025-07-31 | MC How Affect | Once this update is rolled out, users will see a new Tools button in the Copilot Chat prompt box. Selecting this button opens a menu of AI-powered features tailored to the user's license. This enhancement improves discoverability and usability of Copilot capabilities, helping users complete tasks more efficiently.
This feature is on by default and does not require admin configuration. What you can do to prepare No admin action is required. However, you may want to: Inform users about the new Tools experience in Copilot Chat. Update internal documentation or training materials if needed. Compliance considerations No compliance considerations identified, review as appropriate for your organization. | Once this update is rolled out, users will see a new Tools button in the Copilot Chat prompt box. Selecting this button opens a menu of AI-powered features tailored to the user's license. This enhancement improves discoverability and usability of Copilot capabilities, helping users complete tasks more efficiently.
This feature is on by default and does not require admin configuration. What you can do to prepare No admin action is required. However, you may want to: Inform users about the new Tools experience in Copilot Chat. Update internal documentation or training materials if needed. Compliance considerations No compliance considerations identified, review as appropriate for your organization. |
Last updated 1 week ago ago
