MC1187395 – (Updated) New “Prepare” button added to the “Up Next” card for Microsoft 365 Copilot users

Product:

Copilot, Microsoft 365 Copilot

Platform:

Online, US Instances, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

New feature, Updated message, User impact

Links:

Details:

Summary:
Microsoft 365 Copilot users will see a new "Prepare" button replacing "Join" on the Up Next card up to 5 minutes before meetings, providing quick access to meeting prep tools. Rollout begins February 2026, enabled by default for Copilot Premium users, with no admin action required.

Details:
Updated January 5, 2026: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
[Introduction]
To help users better prepare for upcoming meetings, Microsoft is enhancing the Up Next card experience in Microsoft 365. A new Prepare button will replace the Join button up to 5 minutes before a meeting starts, offering a one-tap way to access Copilot's meeting preparation tools. This update supports improved productivity and readiness, aligning with feedback for more proactive meeting support.
Screenshot 1: Tap Prepare in Up Next.

Screenshot 2: Users can prepare with Copilot Chat.

[When this will happen:]
General Availability (Worldwide, GCC, GCC High, DoD): Rollout begins early February 2026 (previously early January) and is expected to complete by late February 2026 (previously late January).

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-11-18

updated:
2026-01-06

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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Pictures

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

User Interface Change
The replacement of the Join button with the Prepare button may confuse users who are accustomed to the previous interface, leading to potential delays in joining meetings.
   - roles: End Users, Helpdesk Support
   - references: https://support.microsoft.com/topic/prepare-for-your-meeting-with-copilot-f23326fc-7721-45f1-875e-23e77aaf3d89?preview=true

Meeting Preparation
Without prior preparation, users may not be aware of the new features available through the Prepare button, resulting in unpreparedness for meetings and decreased productivity.
   - roles: End Users, Team Leaders
   - references: https://support.microsoft.com/topic/prepare-for-your-meeting-with-copilot-f23326fc-7721-45f1-875e-23e77aaf3d89?preview=true

Configutation Options**

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explanation for non-techies**

Microsoft 365 is introducing a small but useful change for users of its Copilot feature. Imagine you're getting ready for a meeting, much like preparing for a road trip. Previously, you had a "Join" button that acted like the ignition key, starting your journey right when the meeting began. Now, up to five minutes before the meeting, this button is replaced with a "Prepare" button. Think of this as having a checklist pop up before you start driving, reminding you to check your fuel, adjust your mirrors, and ensure you have your map ready.

This "Prepare" button gives you quick access to tools that help you get ready for the meeting, like reviewing the agenda or going over key points. It's like having a co-pilot who helps you plan your route and ensures you have everything you need before hitting the road. This change is designed to make you feel more prepared and confident, just as you would be when starting a trip with everything in place.

For those with a Microsoft 365 Copilot Premium license, this feature will automatically be available, and no additional steps are needed from IT administrators. It's a seamless enhancement, like getting a car upgrade that requires no extra setup. The rollout will begin in February 2026, so it's like knowing that a new feature in your car will be available next year, giving you something to look forward to. This change is all about making meetings smoother and ensuring you're ready to tackle them effectively.