check before: 2026-01-01
Product:
Copilot, Microsoft 365 Copilot, OneDrive, Windows
Platform:
Online, US Instances, World tenant
Status:
Change type:
New feature, User impact, Admin impact
Links:
Details:
Summary:
Microsoft 365 Copilot will enable users to generate and share AI-generated file summaries directly from Windows File Explorer and OneDrive activity center starting January 2026. The feature is enabled by default, requires a Copilot license, and needs no admin setup. It enhances collaboration by providing context when sharing files.
Details:
We're bringing the power of Microsoft 365 Copilot directly into your daily file experience in Windows. This new feature enables users to generate summaries of files and share them directly from the share dialog in File Explorer and the OneDrive activity center. This enhancement is designed to streamline collaboration and improve productivity by making it easier to provide context when sharing files.
A Microsoft 365 Copilot license is required to access this feature.
When this will happen
General Availability (Worldwide, GCC, GCC High, DoD): Rollout begins in early January 2026 and is expected to complete by late January 2026.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
Created:
2025-11-20
updated:
2025-11-20
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**
AI Processing of Customer Data
The introduction of AI-generated summaries may raise concerns regarding data privacy and compliance, as it involves processing customer content through AI.
- roles: Compliance Officer, Data Protection Officer
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/which-copilot-for-your-organization
User Experience with File Sharing
Users may experience confusion or frustration if they are not informed about the new summary feature, leading to potential misuse or underutilization of the tool.
- roles: End User, IT Support
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/which-copilot-for-your-organization
Increased Collaboration Expectations
The new feature may create an expectation for enhanced collaboration, which could lead to dissatisfaction if users do not adopt the tool effectively or if it does not meet their needs.
- roles: Team Leader, Project Manager
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/which-copilot-for-your-organization
Training and Documentation Gaps
Without proper preparation, there may be a lack of training and documentation for users, leading to ineffective use of the new feature and decreased productivity.
- roles: Training Coordinator, Technical Writer
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/which-copilot-for-your-organization
Licensing Confusion
Users may be unaware of the licensing requirements for Microsoft 365 Copilot, leading to access issues and frustration when trying to use the new feature.
- roles: Finance Officer, IT Administrator
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/which-copilot-for-your-organization
Configutation Options**
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Opportunities**
Enhanced Collaboration through Contextual Summaries
The introduction of AI-generated summaries will significantly improve collaboration by providing context when sharing files. This feature allows users to quickly understand the content of shared files, reducing the time spent on back-and-forth communications and enhancing overall productivity.
- next-steps: Train users on how to effectively use the summary feature in their daily workflows and encourage them to utilize it during file sharing.
- roles: Project Managers, Team Leaders, Content Creators
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/which-copilot-for-your-organization
Reduction in Administrative Overhead
Since the feature requires no admin setup and is enabled by default, IT departments can save time and resources that would otherwise be spent on configuration and support. This allows IT teams to focus on more strategic initiatives rather than routine administrative tasks.
- next-steps: Monitor user feedback and performance metrics to ensure the feature is being utilized effectively, and adjust support resources accordingly.
- roles: IT Administrators, Support Teams
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/which-copilot-for-your-organization
Opportunity for Improved User Training and Documentation
With the new functionality, there is an opportunity to enhance internal training materials and documentation. This can help users fully leverage the capabilities of Copilot, ensuring they understand how to utilize the summary feature effectively in their workflows.
- next-steps: Develop updated training sessions and resources that highlight the new features and best practices for using Copilot in file sharing.
- roles: Training Coordinators, HR Managers, Team Leaders
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/which-copilot-for-your-organization
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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