MC1129706 – Simplifying Microsoft 365 Copilot app web experiences (archived)

Product:

Copilot, Copilot Chat, Microsoft 365 Copilot, Microsoft 365 suite

Platform:

mobile, Online, Web, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

Feature update, User impact, Admin impact

Links:

Details:

Summary:
Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat web access is being simplified by consolidating entry points from copilot.cloud.microsoft to m365.cloud.microsoft/chat, reducing user confusion. The change starts mid-September with automatic redirection, requires no admin action, and does not affect data processing or AI capabilities.

Details:
Based on your feedback, we're simplifying how users access Copilot Chat on the web by consolidating entry points.
Today, users without chat pinned in the Microsoft 365 Copilot app access Copilot Chat in a standalone experience on copilot.cloud.microsoft, while users with chat pinned access Copilot Chat on m365.cloud.microsoft.
To simplify and improve the Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat experience, we're consolidating the chat functionality into the Microsoft 365 Copilot app. Having two separate entry points has created customer confusion and extra effort for our customers. By unifying the experience, we're making it easier to access the full value of Copilot in one place.
Below is the new experience on m365.cloud.microsoft for users without chat pinned in the Microsoft 365 Copilot app who visit Microsoft 365 Copilot app via a direct chat link (m365.cloud.microsoft/chat). Users with pinning disabled will continue to see chat unpinned by default on m365.cloud.microsoft, on mobile, and on desktop. Users who continue to navigate to copilot.cloud.microsoft will automatically be redirected to the below chat experience on m365.cloud.microsoft/chat.

If users come to chat via a direct link (m365.cloud.microsoft/chat) they will see chat in a transient state in their navigation. If a user navigates away from chat, it will disappear from the navigation unless the user chooses to pin it.
Below is the default experience on m365.cloud.microsoft for users with chat pinned in the Microsoft 365 Copilot app. No change to the end users' experience.

There is no change for users with a Microsoft 365 Copilot license and no change for users whose access to Copilot has been blocked in Integrated Apps.
Users with bookmarks or favorites saved to copilot.cloud.microsoft will be redirected to m365.cloud.microsoft/chat automatically.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-08-06

updated:
2025-08-07

Task Type

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Docu to Check

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MS How does it affect me

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MS Preperations

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MS Urgency

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Pictures

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

User Confusion
Consolidating entry points may initially confuse users who are accustomed to the previous separate access points, leading to potential frustration and decreased productivity.
   - roles: End Users, Support Staff
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/copilot/manage

Access Issues
Users who have bookmarks or favorites saved to the old URL may experience temporary access issues until they are redirected, potentially disrupting their workflow.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support
   - references: https://m365.cloud.microsoft/chat/

Transient Navigation Experience
Users accessing chat via direct links may find the chat feature in a transient state, which could lead to confusion about how to pin or access it consistently.
   - roles: End Users, Product Managers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/copilot/manage

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Enhanced User Training and Support
With the consolidation of entry points, there is an opportunity to develop targeted training resources that help users navigate the new experience effectively. This can include video tutorials, FAQs, and live support sessions to address user queries and enhance their understanding of the Copilot Chat functionalities.
   - next-steps: Create a training plan that includes resource development, schedule training sessions, and gather user feedback to improve the training materials.
   - roles: Training Coordinators, IT Support Staff, User Experience Designers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/copilot/manage, https://m365.cloud.microsoft/chat/

Improved User Feedback Mechanism
The change presents an opportunity to implement a structured feedback mechanism where users can share their experiences with the new access method. This can lead to insights that drive further enhancements and user satisfaction.
   - next-steps: Develop a feedback collection tool (e.g., survey or feedback form) and promote it among users to gather insights on their experience with the new access method.
   - roles: Product Managers, User Experience Researchers, IT Administrators
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/copilot/manage, https://m365.cloud.microsoft/chat/

Streamlined IT Administrative Processes
The automatic redirection feature reduces the administrative burden on IT teams, allowing them to focus on more strategic initiatives rather than user support for access issues. This can lead to better resource allocation and improved IT service delivery.
   - next-steps: Assess current IT support workload related to access issues and reallocate resources to focus on strategic projects that enhance IT services.
   - roles: IT Managers, Operations Managers, Help Desk Staff
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/copilot/manage, https://m365.cloud.microsoft/chat/

Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

Microsoft is making it easier for users to access Copilot Chat by consolidating the entry points. Imagine you have two different doors to enter the same room, and each door is used by different people. This setup can be confusing and inefficient. Microsoft is essentially closing one door and guiding everyone through a single entrance, ensuring that everyone finds their way more easily.

Previously, users accessed Copilot Chat through two different web addresses depending on whether they had chat pinned in the Microsoft 365 Copilot app. This was like having two separate doors for the same function, which led to confusion. Now, Microsoft is redirecting everyone to one unified web address, m365.cloud.microsoft/chat, making it simpler and more straightforward for users to access the chat feature.

For those who are used to going through the old door (copilot.cloud.microsoft), there’s no need to worry. Microsoft has set up an automatic redirection, like a sign that points you to the new entrance. This change doesn’t require any action from administrators or users, and it doesn’t affect how data is processed or how AI capabilities work. It's simply about making the user experience more seamless.

In practical terms, this means that if you have a bookmark or favorite saved for the old web address, it will automatically take you to the new one. The functionality remains the same, and users will still enjoy the same features they are accustomed to. This update is akin to rearranging the layout of a store to make it easier for customers to find what they need without changing the products on the shelves.

Overall, this change is about streamlining access and ensuring that everyone has a consistent experience when using Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat.