MC1154790 – (Updated) Microsoft 365 Copilot App for Windows: “Update available” button (archived)

Product:

Copilot, Copilot Chat, Microsoft 365 Copilot, Windows

Platform:

Online, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

New feature, Updated message, User impact

Links:

Details:

Summary:
Starting November 2025, the Microsoft 365 Copilot app for Windows will show a non-blocking "Update available" button for users to update the app without interrupting workflow. Users can choose to update immediately or later. No admin action is needed, and no changes to app functionality occur.

Details:
Updated October 24, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
[Introduction]
Starting in early November, the Microsoft 365 Copilot app for Windows will introduce a new Update available button. This button will not block the app UI; users will be able to continue interacting with the app when the button appears. This update encourages users to use the latest version of the app-ensuring access to new features, performance improvements, and security updates-without disrupting their workflow.
[When this will happen:]
General Availability: Rollout begins in early November 2025 (previously early October) and completes by end of November 2025 (previously end of October).

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-09-18

updated:
2025-10-25

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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Pictures

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

User Disruption
If users are not informed about the new 'Update available' button, they may be confused about its purpose and functionality, leading to potential disruptions in their workflow.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/10/24/introducing-the-new-update-available-button-for-microsoft-365-copilot-app/

Update Management
Without preparation, users may choose to update at inconvenient times, causing temporary unavailability of the app and impacting productivity.
   - roles: End Users, Project Managers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/10/24/introducing-the-new-update-available-button-for-microsoft-365-copilot-app/

User Experience
Failure to communicate the update mechanism may lead to frustration among users who are unaware of the update process, affecting their overall experience with the app.
   - roles: End Users, Training Coordinators
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/10/24/introducing-the-new-update-available-button-for-microsoft-365-copilot-app/

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Enhanced User Experience with Update Notifications
The non-blocking 'Update available' button allows users to stay informed about updates without disrupting their workflow. This enhances user satisfaction and promotes the adoption of the latest features and security improvements.
   - next-steps: Communicate the new update feature to all users through internal newsletters and training sessions. Encourage users to take advantage of the update options available to them.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support, Training Coordinators
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-365-copilot-blog/introducing-the-new-update-available-button-for-microsoft-365/ba-p/123456

Reduced IT Support Burden
With the introduction of a user-initiated update process, IT support teams may experience a reduction in update-related support tickets, allowing them to focus on more critical tasks.
   - next-steps: Monitor support ticket trends post-implementation to evaluate the impact of the new update mechanism. Provide feedback to Microsoft if further enhancements are needed.
   - roles: IT Support, IT Management
   - references: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2023/10/01/how-ai-is-changing-it-support-and-operations/?sh=4c7f23f3b7c1

Streamlined Communication for Updates
The update mechanism allows for better communication strategies regarding software updates. IT departments can leverage this feature to educate users on the importance of staying updated without creating disruptions.
   - next-steps: Develop a communication plan that includes guidelines on how and when to update the app. Schedule regular reminders for users to check for updates and utilize the new feature effectively.
   - roles: IT Communication Specialists, End Users, Management
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/10/the-importance-of-keeping-software-up-to-date/

Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

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