check before: 2025-05-01
Product:
Copilot, Entra, Microsoft 365 admin center
Platform:
Mac, Online, Web, Windows Desktop, World tenant
Status:
Change type:
New feature, User impact, Admin impact
Links:
Details:
Summary:
Microsoft 365 Admins can configure Frontier features for end users to access experimental AI features before general availability in May 2025. Users need an active Copilot license and must be added to a Microsoft Entra ID group. Configuration varies for desktop, web, and mobile products, with specific controls in the Microsoft 365 Admin Center.
Details:
Frontier offers the ability to get hands-on with the latest model innovation and provide feedback before experiences are made generally available. Microsoft 365 Admins can configure Frontier features for their end users within their own tenant. This post outlines how to configure access to Frontier features across platforms and what to expect.
[When this will happen:]
General Availability: We will roll out the capability in May 2025.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
Created:
2025-05-29
updated:
2025-05-29
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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summary for non-techies**
Microsoft 365 Admins can enable select users to access new AI features early by providing them with an active Copilot license and adding them to a Microsoft Entra ID group, with configuration varying by device type, and can manage access through the Microsoft 365 Admin Center.
Direct effects for Operations**
User Experience Disruption
If end users are configured for experimental features without proper preparation, they may encounter bugs or unstable features, leading to frustration and decreased productivity.
- roles: End Users, IT Administrators
- references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-365-blog/announcing-microsoft-365-copilot/ba-p/3741230
Increased Support Requests
Unprepared users may face challenges with new features, resulting in a surge of support requests that IT must handle, diverting resources from other critical tasks.
- roles: Help Desk Support, IT Administrators
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/understanding-the-impact-of-new-features-on-user-support/
Licensing Compliance Issues
Without proper preparation, users may be granted access to Frontier features without having the required Copilot licenses, leading to compliance risks and potential penalties.
- roles: Compliance Officers, IT Administrators
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/09/15/microsoft-365-licensing-best-practices/
Configutation Options**
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Opportunities**
Enhanced User Feedback Mechanism
Implement a structured feedback loop for users accessing Frontier features to capture insights and improve the AI offerings based on real-world usage. This will not only enhance user experience but also guide future development of AI features.
- next-steps: Create a feedback form or survey specifically for users involved in the Frontier program. Schedule regular review meetings to analyze feedback and adjust configurations accordingly.
- roles: Product Managers, User Experience Designers, IT Administrators
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/05/01/introducing-frontier-features-in-microsoft-365/
Targeted Training Sessions
Conduct targeted training sessions for users selected for Frontier features to ensure they understand how to leverage the new AI capabilities effectively. This can improve adoption rates and overall satisfaction with the features.
- next-steps: Develop training materials that focus on the specific features of Frontier. Schedule live training sessions and provide recorded resources for ongoing reference.
- roles: Training Coordinators, IT Administrators, End Users
- references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-365-admin-center-blog/introducing-microsoft-365-copilot-in-the-admin-center/ba-p/3632701
Optimization of Licensing Management
Utilize Microsoft Entra ID capabilities to streamline the management of licenses for users accessing Frontier features, ensuring that only eligible users have access and reducing unnecessary costs.
- next-steps: Review current license assignments and identify users who need Copilot licenses. Set up automated processes for license assignment and removal based on user participation in the Frontier program.
- roles: IT Administrators, Finance Managers, Compliance Officers
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/active-directory/enterprise-users/groups/groups-overview
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**
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** AI generated content. This information must be reviewed before use.
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