check before: 2026-02-01
Product:
Copilot, Copilot Chat, Microsoft 365 Apps, Microsoft 365 Copilot
Platform:
mobile, Online, Web, World tenant
Status:
Change type:
New feature, User impact
Links:
Details:
Summary:
Starting early February 2026, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files cited in Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat (web) will open directly within the chat instead of a new tab. This change requires a Copilot license, is enabled by default, needs no admin action, and does not affect other Copilot apps.
Details:
[Introduction]
We are updating the file-opening experience in Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat. When users click on cited Word, Excel, or PowerPoint content in Copilot Chat, the file currently opens in a new browser tab. With this update, supported files can open directly within Copilot chat to streamline viewing. This change does not apply to Copilot Mobile, Copilot in Edge, Copilot in Excel, Copilot in Word, or Copilot in PowerPoint.
[When this will happen:]
General Availability (Worldwide): rollout will begin in early February 2026 and is expected to complete by mid-February 2026.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
Created:
2026-01-31
updated:
2026-01-31
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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summary for non-techies**
Starting February 2026, Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat will allow Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files to open directly within the chat window for users with a Microsoft 365 Copilot license on the web version, eliminating the need for new browser tabs.
Direct effects for Operations**
User Experience Change
Users may experience confusion or frustration if they are accustomed to opening files in a new tab and suddenly find them opening within the chat interface, potentially disrupting their workflow.
- roles: End Users, Helpdesk Support
- references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/10/whats-new-in-microsoft-365-copilot/
Training and Documentation Needs
Internal documentation and training materials may become outdated, requiring updates to reflect the new file-opening behavior, which could lead to misinformation if not addressed promptly.
- roles: Training Teams, IT Documentation Specialists
- references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-365-blog/announcing-microsoft-365-copilot/ba-p/3856785
Configutation Options**
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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 5 days ago ago
