MC1187677 – Microsoft 365 Copilot: Navigation refresh in the M365 Copilot app

Product:

Copilot, Microsoft 365 Copilot, Windows

Platform:

Mac, Online, Web, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Rolling out

Change type:

New feature, User impact, Admin impact

Links:

518222

Details:

Summary:
The Microsoft 365 Copilot app will have a simplified, flattened navigation menu with logically grouped features. The rollout starts mid-November 2025 for targeted release and December 2025 for general availability, completing by January 2026. No admin action is required.

Details:
[Introduction:]
The Microsoft 365 Copilot app now features a simpler, cleaner navigation experience. We've flattened the menu and grouped features logically so it's easier for users to find what matters most.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 518222.
[When this will happen:]
Targeted Release: Rollout begins in mid-November 2025 and is expected to complete by late November 2025.
General Availability (Worldwide): Rollout begins in December 2025 and is expected to complete by January 2026.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability, Targeted Release

Created:
2025-11-19

updated:
2025-11-19

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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linked item details

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Pictures

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Navigation Confusion
Users may struggle to adapt to the new navigation layout, leading to confusion and decreased productivity as they search for familiar features.
   - roles: End Users, Support Staff
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/microsoft-365-copilot-app-admin-settings, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=518222

Training Needs
The change may necessitate additional training sessions for users to familiarize themselves with the new navigation, impacting time and resources.
   - roles: Training Coordinators, End Users
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/microsoft-365-copilot-app-admin-settings, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=518222

User Experience Disruption
Immediate changes without preparation could lead to frustration among users, negatively impacting their overall experience with the app.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/microsoft-365-copilot-app-admin-settings, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=518222

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Enhanced User Training Programs
With the introduction of a simplified navigation in the Microsoft 365 Copilot app, there is an opportunity to enhance user training programs to help users adapt to the new interface and maximize the app's features. This can lead to improved user satisfaction and productivity as users become more proficient in utilizing the app effectively.
   - next-steps: Develop and implement training sessions, webinars, and documentation that focus on the new navigation and features of the Microsoft 365 Copilot app. Gather feedback from users to continuously improve training materials.
   - roles: IT Administrators, Training Coordinators, End Users
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/microsoft-365-copilot-app-admin-settings, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=518222

Improved User Feedback Mechanism
The navigation refresh presents an opportunity to establish a more robust user feedback mechanism to collect insights on the new interface and identify any areas for further improvement. This can help IT understand user needs better and enhance the overall user experience.
   - next-steps: Create a feedback form or survey that users can fill out after experiencing the new navigation. Analyze the data collected to identify trends and areas for improvement, and communicate findings back to users.
   - roles: Product Managers, UX Designers, IT Administrators
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=518222

Streamlined IT Support Processes
The navigation update could lead to an opportunity to streamline IT support processes by revising support documentation and FAQs to align with the new features and layout. This can reduce the time IT spends addressing common user queries and improve response times.
   - next-steps: Review existing support documentation and FAQs to ensure they reflect the new navigation. Train support staff on the changes to provide accurate assistance to users.
   - roles: IT Support Staff, Help Desk Managers, End Users
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/microsoft-365-copilot-app-admin-settings, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=518222

Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

Imagine you're navigating a large library. Previously, this library had books scattered across various floors and sections without much order, making it challenging to find what you needed quickly. Now, the library has reorganized its layout. Books are grouped by genre and topic, and the sections are clearly labeled, allowing you to locate your desired book with ease. This is similar to the changes happening in the Microsoft 365 Copilot app.

The Microsoft 365 Copilot app is undergoing a navigation refresh to make it simpler and more intuitive for users. The navigation menu, which previously might have felt cluttered or complex, is being streamlined. Features are now grouped logically, much like how the library reorganized its books. This means that users can find the tools and functions they need more quickly and efficiently, without having to search through multiple layers of menus.

For those using the Microsoft 365 Copilot app on the web, Windows, or Mac, this change will roll out starting in mid-November 2025 for early adopters and will be generally available by January 2026. Users will notice that the Apps entry point is now conveniently located in the navigation footer, right next to Settings, making it easier to access.

There is no need for any administrative action to accommodate these changes, as they will be automatically updated. This is akin to the library staff handling the reorganization, so visitors can simply enjoy the improved experience without any extra effort on their part.

In summary, this update is designed to enhance user experience by making the app's navigation more intuitive and user-friendly, much like a well-organized library helps you find your books faster.