MC1104316 – (Updated) Microsoft 365 Copilot in Viva Engage (archived)

Product:

Copilot, Microsoft 365 Copilot, Microsoft Graph, Microsoft Viva, Microsoft Viva Engage, Purview Communication Compliance

Platform:

Developer, Online, Web, World tenant

Status:

Launched

Change type:

New feature, User impact, Admin impact

Links:

481282

Details:

Summary:
Microsoft 365 Copilot in Viva Engage evolves into a personalized AI companion, offering features like Community Catch-Up, Information Discovery, and Recall. Rollout starts mid-August 2025, requiring Copilot licenses. Organizations should prepare by reviewing licenses, communicating changes, and updating training. Compliance impacts include new data storage and AI interactions.

Details:
Updated August 7, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
We're introducing the next evolution of Copilot in Engage-transforming it from a writing assistant into a personalized AI companion. This enhanced experience helps users stay informed, discover insights, and recall important information across their network.
This change is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID: 481282
[When this will happen:]
General Availability (Worldwide): Rollout begins mid-August 2025 (previously late July) and we expect to complete the rollout by late September 2025 (previously end of August).

Change Category:
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Scope:
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Release Phase:
General Availability, Targeted Release

Created:
2025-06-27

updated:
2025-08-09

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**

Licensing Issues
Users without a Microsoft 365 Copilot license will not have access to the new capabilities, leading to frustration and reduced productivity for those who need the features.
   - roles: End Users, IT Administrators
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/roadmap?rtc=1%26filters%3D&searchterms=481282

User Training Gaps
Without proper training updates, users may struggle to utilize the new features effectively, resulting in a poor user experience and decreased engagement with the platform.
   - roles: End Users, Training Coordinators
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/roadmap?rtc=1%26filters%3D&searchterms=481282

Compliance Risks
Changes in data processing and storage may lead to compliance issues, especially regarding GDPR, if not properly managed and communicated to users.
   - roles: Compliance Officers, Data Protection Officers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/roadmap?rtc=1%26filters%3D&searchterms=481282

Configutation Options**

XXXXXXX ... paid membership only

Opportunities**

Enhanced User Training Programs
With the introduction of Microsoft 365 Copilot in Viva Engage, there is an opportunity to develop enhanced training programs that focus on how to effectively use the new AI capabilities. This can lead to improved user adoption and better utilization of the tool's features, resulting in increased productivity and user satisfaction.
   - next-steps: Conduct a needs assessment to identify training gaps, develop training materials that reflect the new capabilities, and schedule training sessions for users.
   - roles: Training Coordinators, IT Administrators, Team Leaders
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/roadmap?rtc=1%26filters%3D&searchterms=481282

Data Compliance and Security Enhancements
The new capabilities in Copilot will alter how data is processed and stored, presenting an opportunity to review and enhance data compliance and security measures. Ensuring that these new features comply with regulations like GDPR will be crucial for protecting user data and maintaining trust.
   - next-steps: Review current compliance policies in light of the new features, update data handling procedures, and provide compliance training to relevant staff.
   - roles: Compliance Officers, Data Protection Officers, IT Security Managers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/roadmap?rtc=1%26filters%3D&searchterms=481282

Improved Knowledge Management
The Recall feature in Copilot can significantly enhance knowledge management within the organization. By allowing users to quickly retrieve past conversations and shared knowledge, organizations can reduce time spent searching for information and improve collaboration.
   - next-steps: Implement a strategy to promote the use of the Recall feature, gather feedback on its effectiveness, and adjust knowledge management practices accordingly.
   - roles: Knowledge Managers, Project Managers, Team Leaders
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/roadmap?rtc=1%26filters%3D&searchterms=481282

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**

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only