check before: 2025-10-13
Product:
Copilot, Entra, Microsoft 365 Apps, Microsoft 365 Copilot, OneNote
Platform:
Developer, Online, World tenant
Status:
Change type:
New feature, User impact, Admin impact
Links:
Details:
Summary:
Custom Engine Agents (CEAs) are now available in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote, expanding Microsoft 365 Copilot extensibility. CEAs run on partner services, appear in the Copilot pane, and allow users to generate and insert content. Full rollout is expected by October 13, 2025, with no admin action required.
Details:
We're expanding Microsoft 365 Copilot extensibility in Office apps. Custom Engine Agents (CEAs) are now available in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote. CEAs are partner-built agents that run on a developer's service engine and connect into Copilot in Office apps. This release completes support for all Copilot agent types in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote, joining Declarative Agents (DAs) already available.
[When this will happen:]
General Availability (Worldwide) is currently available, with full rollout expected by October 13, 2025.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
Created:
2025-10-08
updated:
2025-10-08
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 Experience Disruption
Users may experience confusion or frustration due to the sudden appearance of new Custom Engine Agents (CEAs) in the Copilot pane without prior training or communication, leading to potential misuse or underutilization of the new features.
- roles: End Users, Helpdesk Support
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365-copilot/extensibility/overview-custom-engine-agent?source=recommendations
Increased Support Requests
The introduction of CEAs may lead to an increase in support requests as users seek assistance in understanding and utilizing the new features, potentially overwhelming helpdesk resources.
- roles: Helpdesk Support, IT Support Staff
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365-copilot/extensibility/overview-custom-engine-agent?source=recommendations
Compliance and Data Security Risks
The new CEAs may interact with user data in ways that were not previously accounted for, raising concerns about data security and compliance with regulations, especially in the EU.
- roles: Compliance Officers, Data Protection Officers
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365-copilot/extensibility/agents-overview
Configutation Options**
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Opportunities**
Enhanced User Productivity through CEAs
The introduction of Custom Engine Agents (CEAs) allows users to generate and insert content directly into their documents and presentations, significantly enhancing productivity. Users can leverage CEAs to automate repetitive tasks and streamline content creation processes, which can lead to more efficient workflows.
- next-steps: Conduct training sessions for users to familiarize them with CEAs and their functionalities. Gather feedback on user experiences to identify further enhancements or required support.
- roles: Content Creators, Project Managers, Marketing Teams
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365-copilot/extensibility/overview-custom-engine-agent?source=recommendations
Integration with Third-Party Services
CEAs can be built on partner services, allowing organizations to integrate their existing tools and workflows into Microsoft 365 applications. This can lead to a more cohesive ecosystem where users can utilize familiar tools without leaving their primary applications.
- next-steps: Identify key third-party services used within the organization that could benefit from integration through CEAs. Engage with service providers to explore development opportunities for CEAs.
- roles: IT Administrators, Business Analysts, Development Teams
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365-copilot/extensibility/agents-overview
Improved IT Management and Compliance
With CEAs respecting existing app management policies and being scoped via Entra ID group membership, IT administrators can better manage the discovery and installation of these agents. This can enhance compliance and security by ensuring only approved agents are accessible to users.
- next-steps: Review and update app management policies to include CEAs. Monitor the usage of CEAs to ensure compliance with organizational standards and security protocols.
- roles: IT Administrators, Compliance Officers, Security Teams
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365-copilot/extensibility/overview-custom-engine-agent?source=recommendations
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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** AI generated content. This information must be reviewed before use.
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