MC1157712 – Microsoft OneNote | Sensitivity labels now available on desktop, web, iOS, Android, and Mac

Product:

Entra, Microsoft 365 Apps, OneNote, Purview, Purview Communication Compliance, Purview Data Loss Prevention, Purview Information Protection, Windows

Platform:

Android, iOS, Mac, Online, US Instances, Web, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

In development

Change type:

New feature, User impact, Admin impact

Links:

500020

Details:

Summary:
Microsoft is rolling out Microsoft Purview sensitivity labels for OneNote sections across Win32, Web, iOS, Android, and Mac clients (excluding Windows 10 UWP) from late January 2026 to 2027. This enables encryption, access control, and compliance enforcement aligned with organizational policies, enhancing data protection and admin control.

Details:
Introduction
We're introducing support for Microsoft Purview sensitivity labels in OneNote. This update enables users to classify and protect OneNote sections using the same compliance standards available across Microsoft 365 apps. Labels can be applied directly within OneNote, helping ensure sensitive content is encrypted, access-controlled, and aligned with organizational policies. This change supports consistent data protection across platforms and endpoints.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 500020.
When this will happen
General Availability (Worldwide, GCC, GCCH, and DoD): We will begin rolling out on late January 2026 and expect to complete by late January 2027.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-09-23

updated:
2025-09-23

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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linked item details

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Data Access Control
Without preparation, users may face unexpected restrictions on accessing OneNote sections due to newly enforced sensitivity labels, leading to potential disruptions in workflow.
   - roles: End Users, IT Administrators
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/purview/sensitivity-labels, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=500020

User Experience
Users may experience confusion or frustration if they are not informed about the new labeling process, leading to decreased productivity and potential errors in handling sensitive information.
   - roles: End Users, Compliance Officers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/purview/sensitivity-labels, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=500020

Compliance Monitoring
Admins may struggle to monitor and report on compliance activities effectively if they are unprepared for the changes in sensitivity labeling, potentially leading to compliance risks.
   - roles: IT Administrators, Compliance Officers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/purview/sensitivity-labels, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=500020

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Enhanced Data Protection and Compliance
With the introduction of sensitivity labels in OneNote, organizations can ensure that sensitive content is encrypted and access-controlled, thereby enhancing overall data protection and compliance with organizational policies. This is particularly beneficial for regulated industries that must adhere to strict compliance requirements.
   - next-steps: Develop a training program for users on how to effectively use sensitivity labels in OneNote. Update internal policies to include guidelines on labeling sensitive information and ensure compliance with regulations.
   - roles: Compliance Officers, IT Administrators, Data Protection Officers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/purview/sensitivity-labels, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=500020

Improved Admin Control and Monitoring
Admins will gain greater control over how sensitive information is handled within OneNote, including the ability to enforce labeling policies and monitor usage via Microsoft Purview. This can lead to better oversight and compliance tracking.
   - next-steps: Implement monitoring tools within Microsoft Purview to track the usage of sensitivity labels. Schedule regular audits to ensure compliance with the labeling policies and adjust as necessary.
   - roles: IT Administrators, Compliance Officers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/purview/sensitivity-labels, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=500020

Streamlined User Experience Across Platforms
The ability to apply sensitivity labels directly within OneNote across multiple platforms (desktop, web, iOS, Android, Mac) provides a consistent user experience. This can reduce confusion and enhance productivity for users working in diverse environments.
   - next-steps: Communicate the changes to users and provide resources on how to use the new features effectively. Gather user feedback post-implementation to identify any areas for further improvement.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support Staff, Training Coordinators
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/purview/sensitivity-labels, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=500020

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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