MC1099685 – (Updated) Researcher in Copilot Notebooks

Product:

Copilot, Copilot Chat, Defender, Microsoft 365 Copilot, OneNote

Platform:

Online, Web, World tenant

Status:

Launched

Change type:

Admin impact, New feature, Updated message, User impact

Links:

493288

Details:

Summary:
The Researcher Agent is integrated into Copilot Notebooks, enabling complex, multi-step research across enterprise data using OpenAI’s model. Rollout starts mid-September 2025, completing by late October. The feature is on by default for eligible tenants, enhancing in-context research workflows without user action needed.

Details:
Updated September 16, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
We're expanding the capabilities of the Researcher Agent by integrating it into Copilot Notebooks. This enhancement allows users to conduct complex, multi-step research across enterprise data sources-without leaving the Notebook experience-using OpenAI's deep researcher model with chain-of-thought reasoning.
This change is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID: 493288
[When this will happen:]
General Availability (Worldwide): Rollout will begin in mid-September 2025 (previously early September) and is expected to complete by late October 2025 (previously late September).

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-06-21

updated:
2025-09-17

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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linked item details

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Pictures

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Data Access and Compliance
The integration of the Researcher Agent may lead to unauthorized access to sensitive enterprise data if not properly managed, potentially violating data protection regulations.
   - roles: Data Protection Officer, IT Security Manager
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?rtc=1%26filters%3D&searchterms=493288

User Experience Disruption
Users may experience confusion or disruption in their workflows if they are not informed about the new capabilities and how to utilize them effectively.
   - roles: End User, Training Coordinator
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?rtc=1%26filters%3D&searchterms=493288

Performance Issues
The introduction of the Researcher Agent could lead to performance degradation in Copilot Notebooks if the infrastructure is not adequately prepared to handle increased load.
   - roles: System Administrator, IT Operations Manager
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?rtc=1%26filters%3D&searchterms=493288

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Enhanced Research Efficiency
The integration of the Researcher Agent into Copilot Notebooks allows users to perform complex, multi-step research tasks without leaving the Notebook environment. This leads to increased productivity as users can seamlessly synthesize information from multiple data sources, reducing the time spent switching between applications.
   - next-steps: Conduct training sessions for users on how to leverage the Researcher Agent within Copilot Notebooks effectively. Create documentation that outlines best practices for using the new feature to enhance research workflows.
   - roles: Researchers, Data Analysts, Project Managers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?rtc=1%26filters%3D&searchterms=493288

Improved User Experience with AI Integration
By utilizing OpenAI's deep researcher model, the Copilot Notebooks will provide users with a more intuitive and intelligent research experience. This AI-driven approach can enhance user satisfaction and engagement by providing relevant insights and suggestions in real-time.
   - next-steps: Gather user feedback post-launch to assess the effectiveness of the AI integration and identify areas for further improvement. Regularly update the user interface based on feedback to ensure a user-friendly experience.
   - roles: End Users, UX Designers, IT Support
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?rtc=1%26filters%3D&searchterms=493288

Data Security and Compliance Awareness
The Researcher Agent's access to enterprise data sources necessitates a focus on data security and compliance. This integration should prompt a review of existing data governance policies to ensure that the use of AI complies with organizational standards and regulations.
   - next-steps: Conduct a compliance audit to assess how the new feature interacts with existing data policies. Provide training for IT and compliance teams on the implications of using AI tools with sensitive data.
   - roles: Compliance Officers, IT Security Teams, Data Governance Managers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?rtc=1%26filters%3D&searchterms=493288

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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