MC1116511 – (Updated) Microsoft 365 Copilot | Chat now supports new file types in search grounding (archived)

Product:

Copilot, Copilot Chat, Microsoft 365 Copilot, Microsoft 365 suite, Microsoft Search, Teams

Platform:

Online, Web, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Launched

Change type:

New feature, Updated message, User impact

Links:

492268

Details:

Summary:
Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat now supports additional file types like CAD, ZIP, and MP4 for search grounding, enhancing response relevance. The rollout begins early August 2025, with no user interface changes. Users must have eligible Microsoft 365 Copilot licenses; the feature is enabled by default.

Details:
Updated August 5, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
Introduction
We're expanding the file types supported in Copilot Chat to align with the Microsoft Search experience. This enhancement allows users to ground their questions in a broader range of content types, improving the relevance and accuracy of Copilot responses.
This message is associated with Roadmap ID 492268.
When this will happen
General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rolling out in early August 2025 (previously late August) and expect to complete by early August 2025 (previously mid-September).

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-07-17

updated:
2025-08-06

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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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Increased Data Access
The change allows Copilot to access additional file types (CAD, ZIP, MP4), which may lead to unintended data exposure if sensitive information is included in these files.
   - roles: Data Protection Officer, IT Security Manager
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/manage, https://support.microsoft.com/topic/file-formats-supported-by-microsoft-365-copilot-1afb9a70-2232-4753-85c2-602c422af3a8

User Confusion
Users may be confused about the new capabilities and how to effectively utilize the additional file types in their queries, potentially leading to decreased productivity.
   - roles: End User, Team Leader
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=492268, https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/manage " target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/manage

Compliance Risks
The introduction of new file types for grounding may alter how existing customer data is processed, raising compliance concerns regarding data handling and privacy regulations.
   - roles: Compliance Officer, Legal Advisor
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/manage, https://support.microsoft.com/topic/file-formats-supported-by-microsoft-365-copilot-1afb9a70-2232-4753-85c2-602c422af3a8

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Enhanced Data Utilization
With the addition of new file types (CAD, ZIP, MP4) supported by Microsoft 365 Copilot, teams can leverage a wider range of data sources for decision-making and project management. This will enhance collaboration and productivity as users can access relevant information more efficiently.
   - next-steps: Conduct training sessions for teams to familiarize them with the new file types and how to utilize them effectively in Copilot. Monitor usage and gather feedback to further optimize workflows.
   - roles: Project Managers, Data Analysts, Design Teams
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/manage, https://support.microsoft.com/topic/file-formats-supported-by-microsoft-365-copilot-1afb9a70-2232-4753-85c2-602c422af3a8

Improved Search Relevance
The enhancement of Copilot Chat to include more file types allows for better search grounding, leading to more relevant responses. This will improve user experience and efficiency when searching for information across various formats.
   - next-steps: Evaluate current search processes and identify key areas where users face challenges. Implement best practices for utilizing Copilot’s enhanced search capabilities and provide feedback mechanisms for continuous improvement.
   - roles: Knowledge Workers, Customer Support Teams, Sales Teams
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/manage, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=492268

Streamlined Compliance Management
With the introduction of additional file types, there will be new compliance considerations for how data is accessed and processed. This presents an opportunity to review and enhance compliance protocols related to data usage and security.
   - next-steps: Conduct a compliance audit to assess how the new file types will impact existing data governance policies. Update compliance training for relevant staff and ensure that all teams are aware of new protocols.
   - roles: Compliance Officers, IT Security Teams, Legal Teams
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/manage, https://support.microsoft.com/topic/file-formats-supported-by-microsoft-365-copilot-1afb9a70-2232-4753-85c2-602c422af3a8

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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