MC1152323 – (Updated) Microsoft 365 Copilot Apps installation on devices with Microsoft 365 Apps (archived)

Product:

Copilot, Copilot Chat, Microsoft 365 admin center, Microsoft 365 Apps, Microsoft 365 Copilot, Windows

Platform:

Online, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

Admin impact, Feature update, Updated message, User impact

Links:

Details:

Summary:
Starting December 2025, Microsoft will automatically install the Microsoft 365 Copilot app on Windows devices with Microsoft 365 desktop apps (excluding EEA). The app appears in the Start menu, enabled by default, with admins able to opt out. This simplifies access to AI-powered Copilot features.

Details:
Updated November 19, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
Introduction
Starting in December 2025, Microsoft will begin automatically installing the Microsoft 365 Copilot app on Windows devices that have Microsoft 365 desktop client apps. This app provides a centralized entry point for accessing Copilot experiences and AI-powered capabilities across Microsoft 365. This change simplifies access to Copilot and ensures users can easily discover and engage with productivity-enhancing features.
When this will happen
Rollout begins in early December 2025 (previously early October) and completes mid-December 2025 (previously mid-November)

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-09-13

updated:
2025-11-20

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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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Unexpected User Confusion
Users may be confused by the sudden appearance of the Microsoft 365 Copilot app in the Start menu, leading to potential disruptions in their workflow.
   - roles: End Users, Helpdesk Staff
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/11/19/updated-microsoft-365-copilot-apps-installation-on-devices-with-microsoft-365-apps/

Increased Support Requests
The automatic installation may lead to an increase in support requests from users unfamiliar with the new app, impacting helpdesk efficiency.
   - roles: Helpdesk Staff, IT Support
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/11/19/updated-microsoft-365-copilot-apps-installation-on-devices-with-microsoft-365-apps/

Potential Workflow Disruption
Users may inadvertently engage with the new app, leading to interruptions in their established workflows and productivity.
   - roles: End Users, Team Leaders
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/11/19/updated-microsoft-365-copilot-apps-installation-on-devices-with-microsoft-365-apps/

Lack of User Training
Without prior preparation, users may not be adequately trained on how to utilize the new Copilot features, leading to underutilization of the tool.
   - roles: End Users, Training Coordinators
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/11/19/updated-microsoft-365-copilot-apps-installation-on-devices-with-microsoft-365-apps/

Admin Management Challenges
Admins may face challenges in managing the new app installation and user access without prior notification or preparation.
   - roles: IT Administrators, System Administrators
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/11/19/updated-microsoft-365-copilot-apps-installation-on-devices-with-microsoft-365-apps/

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Enhanced User Training and Support
With the automatic installation of the Microsoft 365 Copilot app, there is an opportunity to enhance user training and support. Providing comprehensive training on how to effectively utilize the Copilot features can significantly improve user experience and productivity.
   - next-steps: Develop a training program and materials that focus on the new Copilot features. Schedule training sessions and create a feedback loop to continuously improve the training based on user experiences.
   - roles: IT Administrators, Training Coordinators, End Users
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/11/19/introducing-microsoft-365-copilot/

Streamlined IT Support Processes
The introduction of the Copilot app may lead to an increase in support requests from users unfamiliar with its functionalities. Streamlining IT support processes to handle these inquiries more efficiently can improve overall service delivery.
   - next-steps: Create a dedicated support resource or FAQ for the Copilot app. Train helpdesk staff on common issues and solutions related to the new app to reduce response times and improve user satisfaction.
   - roles: IT Support Staff, Helpdesk Managers, End Users
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/11/19/introducing-microsoft-365-copilot/

Optimization of Licensing and Resource Allocation
As Microsoft 365 Copilot integrates AI features, there is an opportunity to assess and optimize current licensing agreements to ensure the organization is leveraging the most cost-effective options for the new capabilities.
   - next-steps: Conduct a licensing audit to evaluate current Microsoft 365 subscriptions and identify any potential savings or necessary upgrades. Engage with Microsoft representatives to discuss tailored licensing options based on usage patterns.
   - roles: IT Administrators, Finance Managers, Procurement Officers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/11/19/introducing-microsoft-365-copilot/

Potentional Risks**

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Data Protection**

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IT Security**

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Hypothetical Work Council Statement**

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DPIA Draft**

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explanation for non-techies**

Starting in December 2025, Microsoft will automatically install the Microsoft 365 Copilot app on Windows devices that already have Microsoft 365 desktop apps. This change is like getting a new tool in your office toolkit that you didn't have to buy or install yourself. Imagine if your office suddenly got a new coffee machine that everyone could use without having to set it up. It's there to make your workday smoother and more efficient.

The Microsoft 365 Copilot app will appear in the Start menu, which is like having a new shortcut on your desk to access all the features of Copilot. Copilot is designed to help you work smarter by providing AI-powered assistance across Microsoft 365 apps, similar to having a virtual assistant who knows how to use all your office tools to help you with your tasks.

For organizations outside the European Economic Area, this app will be automatically added unless administrators decide to opt out. Think of it as a new feature in your car that gets activated unless you choose to turn it off. If you’re an admin, you can manage this installation through the Microsoft 365 Apps Admin Center, much like how you might decide which software is installed on office computers.

Users will notice a new icon in their Start menu, which is like finding a new button on your office phone that gives you access to a helpful service. On some devices, the app might already be there, so you won't see any changes.

It's important for admins to inform their teams about this update to avoid confusion, much like how you would notify staff about a new policy or tool being introduced in the office. There are no compliance issues identified with this change, but it's always good to review how new tools fit into your organization's policies.

Overall, this update aims to make accessing Microsoft 365's AI features easier, helping users be more productive without needing to take extra steps to install or set up new software.