MC1184654 – (Updated) Microsoft 365 Copilot: Configure connected agents for Researcher and other agents

Product:

Copilot, Copilot Chat, Entra, Microsoft 365 admin center, Microsoft 365 Copilot

Platform:

Developer, Online, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

Admin impact, New feature, Updated message, User impact

Links:

Details:

Summary:
Microsoft 365 Copilot will support connected agents, allowing one agent to query others for data, starting with Researcher in Q4 2025. Rolling out mid-November 2025 to February 2026, admins can manage connected agents, users can enable/disable them per conversation, and up to 10 connected agents are allowed.

Details:
Updated November 11, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
Microsoft 365 Copilot is introducing support for connected agents, allowing one agent to query another for additional context or data. For example, the Researcher agent may request sales or inventory data from other enterprise software agents. This enhancement helps agents deliver more comprehensive and informed responses.
[When this will happen:]
Public Preview: We will begin rolling out in mid-November 2025 and expect to complete by late February 2026.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-11-11

updated:
2025-11-12

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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Pictures

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Increased Complexity in Agent Management
Admins may struggle to manage multiple connected agents without proper preparation, leading to confusion and misconfiguration.
   - roles: Admins, Helpdesk Staff
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/admin/manage/manage-copilot-agents-integrated-apps?view=o365-worldwide

User Experience Disruption
Users may face interruptions in their workflow if they are not informed about how to enable/disable connected agents, leading to frustration.
   - roles: End Users, Helpdesk Staff
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/admin/manage/manage-copilot-agents-integrated-apps?view=o365-worldwide

Data Access and Compliance Risks
The ability for agents to query each other may lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data if not properly managed, raising compliance concerns.
   - roles: Admins, Compliance Officers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/admin/manage/manage-copilot-agents-integrated-apps?view=o365-worldwide

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Enhanced Data Integration
The introduction of connected agents allows for seamless data querying across various agents, enhancing the ability to provide comprehensive responses. This integration can improve decision-making processes and operational efficiency by ensuring that all relevant data is readily accessible during interactions.
   - next-steps: Conduct workshops with teams to identify key data needs and potential agents for integration. Develop a roadmap for implementing connected agents based on user feedback and operational requirements.
   - roles: Data Analysts, Sales Managers, Product Managers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/admin/manage/manage-copilot-agents-integrated-apps?view=o365-worldwide

Improved User Control and Customization
Users will have the ability to enable or disable connected agents per conversation, allowing for tailored interactions based on immediate needs. This flexibility can enhance user experience by providing relevant information without overwhelming users with unnecessary data.
   - next-steps: Create user training sessions to familiarize staff with the new capabilities of enabling/disabling agents. Update user manuals and internal documentation to reflect these changes.
   - roles: End Users, Customer Support Teams, Training Coordinators
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/admin/manage/manage-copilot-agents-integrated-apps?view=o365-worldwide

Streamlined Administrative Management
Admins will have the capability to manage which agents are connected and configure settings within the Microsoft 365 admin center. This centralized management can lead to more efficient administrative processes and improved compliance with data governance policies.
   - next-steps: Review current admin processes and identify areas for improvement with the new agent management capabilities. Schedule training for IT admins on managing connected agents effectively.
   - roles: IT Administrators, Compliance Officers, System Managers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/admin/manage/manage-copilot-agents-integrated-apps?view=o365-worldwide

Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

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