check before: 2025-11-15
Product:
Copilot, Entra, Microsoft 365 admin center, Microsoft 365 Copilot
Platform:
Online, Web, World tenant
Status:
In development
Change type:
New feature, User impact, Admin impact
Links:
Details:
Summary:
Microsoft 365 Copilot introduces user-level federated connectors, allowing users to securely connect external apps like Notion and Canva in real time using their credentials. Admins can manage, control, and stage rollouts of these connectors via the Microsoft 365 admin center. Public preview starts November 15, 2025.
Details:
We're introducing user-level (federated) connectors in Microsoft 365 Copilot, enabling users to securely connect external apps such as Notion, Canva, or Hubspot directly within Copilot experiences like Researcher. Unlike traditional indexed connectors, federated connectors use the Model Context Protocol (MCP) to access data in real time. This allows users to fetch and read information from connected sources using their own credentials, while maintaining admin-level visibility, control, and governance in the Microsoft 365 admin center.
This feature will be available on the web platform.
A Microsoft 365 Copilot license is required to use this feature.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 501585.
When this will happen:
Public Preview: Rollout will begin by November 15, 2025.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
Preview
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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linked item details
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Pictures
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summary for non-techies**
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Direct effects for Operations**
User Experience Disruption
If the rollout of user-level federated connectors occurs without proper preparation, users may face confusion and frustration due to unexpected changes in their workflow, leading to decreased productivity.
- roles: End Users, Helpdesk Staff
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=501585
Compliance Risks
Without adequate preparation, the introduction of federated connectors may lead to non-compliance with data governance policies, as users could connect to unauthorized external applications, risking data leaks.
- roles: Compliance Officers, IT Administrators
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=501585
Increased Support Tickets
The lack of communication and training regarding the new federated connectors may result in a surge of support tickets from users encountering issues or needing assistance, overwhelming the helpdesk.
- roles: Helpdesk Staff, IT Support
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=501585
Configutation Options**
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Opportunities**
Enhanced Data Governance and Compliance
With the introduction of user-level federated connectors, admins can disable non-compliant connectors, ensuring that only approved applications are used within the organization. This allows for better data governance and compliance with organizational policies.
- next-steps: Identify and review all available connectors. Create a compliance checklist to ensure all connectors align with organizational policies. Disable any non-compliant connectors in the admin center before the public preview.
- roles: IT Administrators, Compliance Officers, Data Governance Managers
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=501585
Improved User Experience with Real-Time Data Access
Users can connect to external applications like Notion and Canva directly within Microsoft 365 Copilot, allowing them to access real-time data without switching platforms. This can significantly enhance productivity and user satisfaction.
- next-steps: Conduct user training sessions to familiarize employees with the new connectors and their benefits. Gather user feedback post-implementation to identify any additional needs or issues.
- roles: End Users, Productivity Managers, Team Leaders
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=501585
Custom Connector Development for Internal Data
Admins can create and manage custom user-level connectors using the Model Context Protocol, allowing for integration of specialized internal data sources into Microsoft 365 Copilot. This can streamline workflows and improve access to critical information.
- next-steps: Assess internal data sources that could benefit from integration. Develop a project plan for creating custom connectors, including necessary resources and timelines.
- roles: IT Administrators, Data Analysts, Business Intelligence Teams
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=501585
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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Last updated 2 weeks ago ago
