check before: 2026-02-01
Product:
Copilot, Microsoft 365 admin center, Microsoft Graph, SharePoint
Platform:
Developer, Online, World tenant
Status:
Change type:
New feature, Admin impact
Links:
Details:
Summary:
SharePoint Embedded apps will support container archival starting February 2026, reducing storage costs by up to 75% and improving Copilot search by prioritizing active content. Admins must opt in via PowerShell, use new Graph APIs, and update apps to manage archived containers. No compliance issues noted.
Details:
[Introduction]
Non-Microsoft SharePoint Embedded applications now support container archival. This feature helps organizations reduce storage costs by up to 75% by moving large or inactive content to low-cost storage tiers. It also improves Copilot search relevance by prioritizing active content and reducing noise from outdated data.
[When this will happen:]
Public Preview: Rollout will begin in early February 2026 and is expected to complete by late February 2026.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
Created:
2026-01-08
updated:
2026-01-08
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**
Storage Management
Without proper preparation, admins may face challenges in managing storage effectively, leading to potential data loss or mismanagement of archived content.
- roles: SharePoint Admin, IT Operations Manager
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/module/microsoft.online.sharepoint.powershell/new-spocontainertype?view=sharepoint-ps, https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/module/microsoft.online.sharepoint.powershell/set-spocontainertype?view=sharepoint-ps
User Experience
Users may encounter confusion or frustration if applications do not handle archived containers properly, leading to a negative impact on productivity.
- roles: End User, Application Developer
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/module/microsoft.online.sharepoint.powershell/new-spocontainertype?view=sharepoint-ps, https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/module/microsoft.online.sharepoint.powershell/set-spocontainertype?view=sharepoint-ps
Integration Challenges
Developers may struggle with integrating the new Graph APIs if they are not prepared, resulting in application downtime or degraded functionality.
- roles: Application Developer, IT Operations Manager
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/module/microsoft.online.sharepoint.powershell/new-spocontainertype?view=sharepoint-ps, https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/module/microsoft.online.sharepoint.powershell/set-spocontainertype?view=sharepoint-ps
Configutation Options**
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Opportunities**
Cost Reduction through Archival
Implementing the container archival feature can significantly reduce storage costs by up to 75% for inactive content. This not only lowers expenses but also optimizes resource allocation within the organization.
- next-steps: Assess current storage usage and identify containers suitable for archival. Opt-in to the archival feature using PowerShell cmdlets and integrate the new Graph APIs into existing workflows.
- roles: IT Administrators, Finance Managers, Operations Managers
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/module/microsoft.online.sharepoint.powershell/new-spocontainertype?view=sharepoint-ps, https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/module/microsoft.online.sharepoint.powershell/set-spocontainertype?view=sharepoint-ps
Enhanced User Experience with Copilot
By archiving inactive content, the relevance of search results in Copilot is improved, leading to a better user experience. Users will find it easier to access active and relevant information, thus increasing productivity.
- next-steps: Train users on the benefits of the new archival system and how it improves search functionality. Monitor user feedback to continuously enhance the experience based on their interactions with Copilot.
- roles: End Users, Product Managers, IT Support
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/module/microsoft.online.sharepoint.powershell/new-spocontainertype?view=sharepoint-ps, https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/module/microsoft.online.sharepoint.powershell/set-spocontainertype?view=sharepoint-ps
Streamlined IT Operations
The introduction of new Graph APIs for managing archived containers can lead to more streamlined IT operations. Admins can automate processes related to content management, reducing manual workload and increasing efficiency.
- next-steps: Develop automation scripts using the new Graph APIs to manage container archival and reactivation. Train IT staff on the use of these APIs to enhance operational workflows.
- roles: IT Administrators, Developers, Operations Managers
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/module/microsoft.online.sharepoint.powershell/new-spocontainertype?view=sharepoint-ps, https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/module/microsoft.online.sharepoint.powershell/set-spocontainertype?view=sharepoint-ps
Potentional Risks**
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IT Security**
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explanation for non-techies**
SharePoint Embedded apps are introducing a new feature that allows for the archiving of containers, which can significantly reduce storage costs and enhance the efficiency of search functions. Think of it like cleaning out your attic. You move items you don't use regularly into storage, freeing up space in your home and making it easier to find the things you need daily. Similarly, by archiving large or inactive content, organizations can cut storage costs by up to 75% and make search results more relevant by focusing on active content.
Starting in February 2026, admins and developers working with SharePoint Embedded applications will have access to new tools to manage this process. These tools, available through Graph APIs and PowerShell commands, will allow for the archiving and unarchiving of containers. However, this feature will not be enabled by default. Admins will need to opt in by using specific PowerShell commands to activate it.
Once enabled, admins can update their applications to recognize archived containers and inform users accordingly. This is akin to labeling boxes in your attic so you know what's stored away and can easily retrieve it when needed. Additionally, developers can choose to add options in their applications to allow users to archive or reactivate content as necessary.
It's important to note that there are no compliance issues associated with this new feature, but organizations should still review their own policies to ensure alignment. This change is designed to be seamless and beneficial, much like reorganizing your storage to make your daily life more efficient and cost-effective.
** AI generated content. This information must be reviewed before use.
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Last updated 6 days ago ago
