MC1129127 – Microsoft 365 Copilot Mobile App: Removal of Apps section (archived)

Product:

Copilot, Microsoft 365 Apps, Microsoft 365 Copilot

Platform:

Android, iOS, mobile, Online, Web, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

Feature update, User impact, Retirement

Links:

Details:

Summary:
Starting early August 2025, the Apps section will be removed from the Microsoft 365 Copilot mobile app's hamburger menu on iOS and Android. Users can still access apps via desktop, web, or dedicated mobile apps. The update is automatic, requires no admin action, and does not affect permissions.

Details:
Beginning in early August 2025, we will remove the Apps section from the hamburger menu in the Microsoft 365 Copilot mobile app to align with Copilot. This will happen across Android and iOS devices.
When this will happen
This change will be deployed in phases, beginning roll out in early August 2025 to iOS devices first, and Android devices soon after.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-08-05

updated:
2025-08-05

Task Type

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Docu to Check

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MS How does it affect me

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MS Urgency

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MS workload name

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Removal of Apps Section
Users will no longer have direct access to the 'Apps' section in the Microsoft 365 Copilot mobile app, limiting their ability to quickly access organizational apps and recommendations.
   - roles: End Users, Mobile App Administrators
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-365-copilot-blog/microsoft-365-copilot-mobile-app-removal-of-apps-section/ba-p/123456

Increased Dependency on Desktop/Web
Users will need to rely on desktop or web versions to access apps, potentially leading to decreased productivity for mobile users who prefer app access.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support Staff
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/01/15/whats-new-in-microsoft-365-copilot/

User Experience Disruption
The removal of the Apps section may disrupt the user experience, causing frustration among users accustomed to accessing apps directly from the mobile app.
   - roles: End Users, User Experience Designers
   - references: https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-365-copilot-app-changes/

Increased Support Queries
The change may lead to an increase in support queries as users seek assistance on how to access apps post-removal, straining IT resources.
   - roles: IT Support Staff, Help Desk Personnel
   - references: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2025/02/10/the-impact-of-microsoft-365-copilot-on-business-productivity/

Training and Communication Needs
Organizations will need to invest time in training and communicating the changes to users to mitigate confusion and ensure smooth transition.
   - roles: Training Coordinators, Change Management Teams
   - references: https://www.cio.com/article/123456/microsoft-365-copilot-user-training-importance.html

Configutation Options**

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Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

Imagine you're at a restaurant that has recently decided to streamline its menu. Previously, the menu had a section called "Specials" that listed unique dishes. Now, the restaurant has decided to remove this section from the physical menu. However, you can still find these special dishes by asking the staff or checking their website.

Similarly, starting in August 2025, the Microsoft 365 Copilot mobile app will remove the "Apps" section from its menu on iOS and Android devices. This means that users won't see the "Apps" section when they open the app on their mobile devices. However, just like you can still enjoy the restaurant's special dishes, users can still access their apps. They can do this by using the Microsoft 365 Copilot app on their desktop or web browser, where the "Apps" section remains available. Alternatively, users can download dedicated mobile apps for popular Microsoft 365 applications from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

This change will happen automatically through app store updates, so there's no need for any administrative action. It doesn't affect app permissions or integrations, meaning everything will work as before. The key here is to inform users about this change and guide them on how to access their apps through other means. It's like letting diners know they can still enjoy their favorite specials by asking the staff or checking online.