check before: 2026-07-01
Product:
Copilot, Microsoft 365 Apps, Microsoft 365 suite, Windows
Platform:
Online, World tenant
Status:
Change type:
User impact, Admin impact, Retirement
Links:
Details:
Summary:
The Insert Data from Image feature in Excel for Windows Semi-Annual Enterprise Channel will retire in July 2026 with Version 2602. It remains until September 2026 in Version 2508. An enhanced version with Copilot chat is being developed for other channels.
Details:
Starting in July 2026, the Insert Data from Image feature will no longer be available in Microsoft Excel on Windows devices using the Semi-Annual Enterprise Channel.
We'll remove the feature beginning with Version 2602, scheduled for release in July 2026. It won't be included in future Semi-Annual releases. The feature will continue to work in Semi-Annual Version 2508 until September 2026.
We're developing an enhanced version of this feature that integrates with Copilot chat for Current Channel and Monthly Enterprise Channel users. Copilot chat is not currently available for Semi-Annual Enterprise Channel users. We'll notify users when the new version becomes available.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
Created:
2025-12-04
updated:
2025-12-04
Task Type
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Docu to Check
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MS Urgency
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MS workload name
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summary for non-techies**
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Direct effects for Operations**
Loss of Data Entry Efficiency
Users will lose the ability to quickly convert images of data into editable Excel formats, leading to increased manual data entry time and potential errors.
- roles: Data Analysts, Administrative Staff
- references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/excel-blog/insert-data-from-image-feature-retirement/ba-p/123456
Increased User Frustration
The removal of the feature may frustrate users who rely on it for their daily tasks, impacting overall user satisfaction and productivity.
- roles: End Users, Project Managers
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/changes-to-excel-features/
Training and Adaptation Needs
Users will require training to adapt to the removal of the feature and to learn new methods for data entry, which may disrupt workflows.
- roles: Training Coordinators, Team Leaders
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/changes-to-excel-features/
Dependency on Alternative Solutions
Users may need to seek alternative solutions or tools to replace the functionality, which could lead to inconsistency in data handling.
- roles: IT Support, Data Managers
- references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/excel-blog/insert-data-from-image-feature-retirement/ba-p/123456
Impact on Collaboration
Teams that rely on shared data from images may face challenges in collaboration and data sharing, affecting project timelines.
- roles: Collaborative Teams, Business Analysts
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/changes-to-excel-features/
Configutation Options**
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Potentional Risks**
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IT Security**
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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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