MC973504 – (Updated) Microsoft 365 Copilot: Select Microsoft SharePoint and Microsoft OneDrive folders when writing prompts (archived)

Product:

Copilot, Microsoft 365 Copilot, OneDrive, SharePoint

Platform:

Online, Web, World tenant

Status:

Launched

Change type:

New feature, Updated message, User impact

Links:

413109

Details:

Summary:
Microsoft 365 Copilot will soon allow users to select SharePoint and OneDrive folders when writing prompts using the "Attach cloud files" icon. This feature will roll out from late July to late August 2025. No admin action is required, but users should be informed. A Copilot license is needed.

Details:
Updated July 2, 2025: We have updated the timeline below. Thank you for your patience.
Coming soon for Microsoft 365 Copilot: When writing Copilot prompts in the chat box, users will be able to use CIQ to select Microsoft SharePoint and Microsoft OneDrive folders using the existing Attach cloud files icon.
Context IQ (CIQ) is a set of AI capabilities from Microsoft that allows users to search for, select, and insert relevant enterprise or personal data directly into their prompts or conversations. This capability helps users to "ground" or anchor their prompts in specific, contextually relevant data, making responses more accurate, specific, and useful.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 413109.
A Microsoft 365 Copilot license is required to use this feature.
[When this will happen:]
General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rolling out late July 2025 (previously late June) and expect to complete by late August 2025 (previously late July).

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-01-07

updated:
2025-08-05

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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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 Impact from New Feature
Users may experience confusion or frustration if they are not informed about the new ability to attach SharePoint and OneDrive folders to prompts, leading to potential misuse or underutilization of the feature.
   - roles: End Users, Support Staff
   - references: https://support.microsoft.com/topic/using-context-iq-to-refer-to-specific-files-people-and-more-in-microsoft-365-copilot-272ac2c1-c5f7-49c9-8a42-2a8a87846fa0, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=413109

Data Management and Security Concerns
Without proper preparation and communication, users may inadvertently share sensitive or inappropriate folders when using the new feature, leading to data security risks.
   - roles: Data Protection Officer, End Users
   - references: https://support.microsoft.com/topic/using-context-iq-to-refer-to-specific-files-people-and-more-in-microsoft-365-copilot-272ac2c1-c5f7-49c9-8a42-2a8a87846fa0, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=413109

Configutation Options**

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explanation for non-techies**

Microsoft 365 Copilot is introducing a new feature that will allow users to select folders from SharePoint and OneDrive when crafting prompts. Imagine you're preparing a legal case and need to refer to specific documents stored in your office's filing cabinets. Previously, you might have had to sift through numerous files to find the right ones. With this update, it's like having a smart assistant who knows exactly which cabinet and drawer to open, making the process quicker and more efficient.

This new capability, powered by Context IQ, acts like a personal librarian for your digital workspace. It helps you find and use the most relevant documents or data directly within your conversations or prompts. This ensures that the information you provide or request is accurate and contextually relevant, much like having a detailed index at your fingertips.

For managers and HR staff, this means less time spent searching for the right files and more time focusing on strategic tasks. It’s akin to having a well-organized digital filing system that automatically suggests the most pertinent documents based on the context of your conversation.

The rollout of this feature is scheduled to occur between late July and late August 2025, and it will be available automatically, requiring no action from IT administrators. Users will need a Microsoft 365 Copilot license to access this feature. It’s important to inform your team about this update so they can take full advantage of the new functionality and update any necessary documentation.

This change is designed to streamline workflows and improve productivity by making it easier to attach relevant folders to prompts, similar to how you might attach files to an email. Just as you would select a specific file to send to a colleague, you can now choose entire folders to provide comprehensive context to your prompts. This feature is particularly useful for teams that frequently collaborate on projects stored in shared drives, ensuring everyone has access to the same information quickly and efficiently.