MC1154790 – (Updated) Microsoft 365 Copilot App for Windows: “Update available” button

Product:

Copilot, Copilot Chat, Microsoft 365 Copilot, Windows

Platform:

Online, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

New feature, Updated message, User impact

Links:

Details:

Summary:
Starting January 2026, the Microsoft 365 Copilot app for Windows will show a non-blocking "Update" button in the top-right corner when a new version is available. Users can update immediately or later without interrupting app use. No admin action is needed; communicate this change to users.

Details:
Updated December 23, 2025: We have updated the content and timeline. Thank you for your patience.
[Introduction]
Starting in January, the Microsoft 365 Copilot app for Windows will introduce a new Update button. This button will not block the app UI; users will be able to continue interacting with the app when the button appears. This update encourages users to use the latest version of the app-ensuring access to new features, performance improvements, and security updates-without disrupting their workflow.
[When this will happen:]
General Availability: Rollout begins in January 2026 (previously early November 2025) and completes by end of January 2026 (previously end of November 2025).

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-09-18

updated:
2025-12-24

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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MS workload name

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Pictures

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

User Disruption
Users may be confused by the new Update button and its functionality, potentially leading to interruptions in their workflow if they do not understand how to use it properly.
   - roles: End Users, Support Staff
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/12/23/introducing-the-new-update-button-for-microsoft-365-copilot-app/

Version Control Issues
If users do not update promptly, they may miss out on critical features and security updates, leading to inconsistencies in user experience and potential security vulnerabilities.
   - roles: End Users, IT Security Team
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/12/23/introducing-the-new-update-button-for-microsoft-365-copilot-app/

Support Overload
Increased support requests may arise from users encountering issues or confusion regarding the new Update button, leading to a strain on IT support resources.
   - roles: Support Staff, IT Operations
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/12/23/introducing-the-new-update-button-for-microsoft-365-copilot-app/

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Improved User Experience with Update Management
The introduction of a non-blocking 'Update' button allows users to manage updates at their convenience, enhancing user satisfaction and productivity by minimizing disruptions. This feature empowers users to maintain control over their workflow while ensuring they can easily access the latest features and security improvements.
   - next-steps: Communicate the new update feature to all users through an internal announcement and provide training materials or sessions to familiarize them with the new functionality.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support, Training Coordinators
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/12/23/microsoft-365-copilot-app-for-windows-update-available-button/

Reduced IT Support Burden
With the non-blocking update feature, users can update the app without requiring assistance from IT. This reduces the volume of support requests related to software updates, allowing IT staff to focus on more critical tasks and improve overall efficiency.
   - next-steps: Analyze current support ticket data to estimate the potential reduction in update-related requests, and adjust IT resource allocation accordingly.
   - roles: IT Support, IT Management
   - references: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2021/05/17/how-to-reduce-it-support-costs-and-increase-productivity/?sh=5b5f8a2b7a12

Enhanced Security Compliance
By facilitating easier updates, the organization can ensure that all users are operating on the latest version of the Microsoft 365 Copilot app, which includes critical security patches and enhancements. This proactive approach to security compliance minimizes vulnerabilities and protects organizational data.
   - next-steps: Establish a routine review process to monitor update adoption rates and ensure all users are on the latest version, potentially integrating this into existing security compliance audits.
   - roles: Security Officers, Compliance Officers, IT Management
   - references: https://www.csoonline.com/article/3294345/why-software-updates-are-critical-to-security.html

Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

Imagine you have a car that gets regular updates to improve its performance, add new features, and enhance safety. Now, instead of having to take your car to the shop and wait for the updates, you get a button on your dashboard that lets you update the car's software whenever it's convenient for you. You can choose to do it immediately or wait until later, without affecting your ability to drive the car.

This is similar to what Microsoft is doing with the Microsoft 365 Copilot app for Windows. Starting in January 2026, when a new version of the app is available, users will see an "Update" button in the top-right corner of the app. This button is non-intrusive, meaning it won't stop you from using the app. You can continue your work without any interruptions, just like you can keep driving your car.

When you click the "Update" button, you'll have two choices. You can choose "Update now," which will close the app, install the update in the background, and then reopen the app with the latest version. It's like choosing to update your car's software right away while you take a quick break. Alternatively, you can choose "Update later," which allows you to keep using the current version of the app, with the update button remaining visible for when you're ready to update. This is akin to deciding to wait until you reach your destination before updating your car.

Once the app is updated, the button will disappear until another new version is available. This process doesn't change how the app works or affect your settings. It's simply a more convenient way to ensure you're always using the most up-to-date version, with all the latest features and security improvements.

There's no need for any administrative action on your part, and there are no compliance issues identified with this change. It's just a new, user-friendly way to keep your software current, much like keeping your car in top shape with regular updates.