MC1152323 - Microsoft 365 Copilot Apps installation on devices with Microsoft 365 Apps

Updated March 16, 2026: We have temporarily disabled the automatic installation of the Microsoft 365 Copilot app to eligible devices with the Microsoft 365 desktop apps. We will provide another update once we re-enable these installations.

Introduction

Starting in December 2025, Microsoft will begin automatically installing the Microsoft 365 Copilot app on Windows devices that have Microsoft 365 desktop client apps. This app provides a centralized entry point for accessing Copilot experiences and AI-powered capabilities across Microsoft 365. This change simplifies access to Copilot and ensures users can easily discover and engage with productivity-enhancing features.

When this will happen

Rollout begins in early December 2025 (previously early October) and completes mid-December 2025 (previously mid-November)

How this affects your organization

Who is affected:

• The Microsoft 365 Copilot app will not automatically deploy to eligible Microsoft 365 desktop apps devices during this time.
• Existing installations are unaffected.

What will happen:

• The Microsoft 365 Copilot app will be automatically installed on Windows devices that have Microsoft 365 desktop apps, unless administrators opt out.
• The app will appear in the Start menu as a new entry point for accessing Copilot experiences across Microsoft 365.
• On devices where the app is already installed, no visible change will occur.
• The app installation is enabled by default and does not require user interaction.
• This change does not apply to customers in the European Economic Area (EEA).

What you can do to prepare

Admin Actions

• Use other app deployment methods to install the Microsoft 365 Copilot app until this capability is restored. You can use Intune and other software management tools to deploy the app.
• Monitor this post for the next update on re-enablement.

User Impact

• Users may see a new app icon for Microsoft 365 Copilot in the Start menu.
• On many devices, the app may already be installed, resulting in no visible change

Compliance considerations

No compliance considerations identified, review as appropriate for your organization.