MC1085684 – (Updated) Realtime voice is now available in M365 Copilot Chat and M365 Copilot

Product:

Copilot, Microsoft 365 Copilot

Platform:

Android, iOS, Mac, mobile, Online, Web, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Rolling out

Change type:

New feature, Updated message, User impact

Links:

481138

Details:

Summary:
Realtime voice chat is now available in Microsoft 365 Copilot, enabling hands-free, natural interactions for brainstorming, searching, and more. The feature rolls out worldwide starting September 2025, is on by default, requires no admin setup, and supports iOS, Android, Web, Windows, and Mac platforms.

Details:
Updated October 6, 2025: We have updated the content. Thank you for your patience.
We're introducing voice chats in Microsoft 365 Copilot.
This update enables users to interact with Copilot using voice, offering a more natural, hands-free experience. Voice chat in M365 Copilot allows users to brainstorm ideas, explore topics, and quickly search-while being able to interrupt or redirect the conversation at any time. This feature will support productivity and accessibility across platforms.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap 481138.
[When this will happen:]
General Availability (Worldwide): Rollout will start early September 2025 (Previously iOS-only in mid-August).

Change Category:
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Scope:
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-05-31

updated:
2025-10-06

Task Type

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Docu to Check

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

MS How does it affect me

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

MS Preperations

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

MS Urgency

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

MS workload name

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

linked item details

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Pictures

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

summary for non-techies**

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Direct effects for Operations**

User Confusion
Users may be confused by the sudden introduction of voice chat without prior training or documentation, leading to ineffective use of the feature.
   - roles: End Users, Support Staff
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=481138

Increased Support Tickets
The lack of preparation may lead to an increase in support tickets as users encounter issues or have questions about the new voice feature.
   - roles: IT Support, Helpdesk Staff
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=481138

Disruption in Workflow
Users may experience disruptions in their workflow as they adapt to the new voice interaction method, potentially leading to decreased productivity.
   - roles: End Users, Project Managers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=481138

Accessibility Issues
Without proper communication, users with disabilities may not be aware of the new feature, limiting their ability to utilize it effectively.
   - roles: Accessibility Coordinators, End Users
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=481138

Technical Glitches
The immediate rollout may lead to unforeseen technical glitches or bugs in the voice feature, impacting user experience negatively.
   - roles: IT Operations, End Users
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=481138

Configutation Options**

XXXXXXX ... paid membership only

Opportunities**

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Potentional Risks**

XXXXXXX ... paid membership only

Data Protection**

XXXXXXX ... paid membership only

IT Security**

XXXXXXX ... paid membership only

Hypothetical Work Council Statement**

XXXXXXX ... paid membership only

DPIA Draft**

XXXXXXX ... paid membership only

explanation for non-techies**

Microsoft 365 Copilot is introducing a new feature that allows users to interact with it using their voice. Imagine it like having a conversation with a smart assistant, similar to asking Siri or Alexa to play your favorite song or check the weather. This feature is designed to make it easier and more natural for users to communicate with Copilot without needing to type everything out.

Think of it as having a virtual colleague you can talk to. You can brainstorm ideas, search for information, or get updates on your tasks simply by speaking. It's like having a conversation with a coworker who can quickly pull up the information you need or help you organize your thoughts. This can be particularly useful when you're on the go or when typing isn't convenient.

The voice chat feature will be available on various platforms, including iOS, Android, Web, Windows, and Mac, starting from September 2025. It's set to be on by default, so users won't need to do anything special to activate it. Just look for the voice chat icon in the bottom-right corner of the input box when using M365 Copilot, and you're ready to start talking.

This update is part of Microsoft's efforts to enhance productivity and accessibility, allowing users to interact with technology in a more intuitive way. It's like having a personal assistant that you can communicate with naturally, helping you work more efficiently and effectively.