MC1240704 - Copilot entry point changes in Word and handoff to Agent in chat

Updated March 12, 2026: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience. 

Introduction

We are updating the entry points for Copilot in Word to provide a clearer, more consistent, and more intuitive experience. These changes unify how users access Copilot and introduce Word Agent in the chat pane as the primary Copilot interface. This update improves discoverability, simplifies the user workflow, and creates consistency with other Microsoft 365 apps.

When this will happen

General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rolling out in late March 2026 (previously early March) and expect to complete by late April 2026.

General Availability (GCC, GCCH and DoD): We will begin rolling out in October 2026 (previously late March) and expect to complete by late October 2026 (previously late April).

How this affects your organization

Who is affected

All users of Microsoft 365 apps for Word on Windows, macOS, and Web.

What will happen

• The existing Copilot entry point in the left margin will be replaced by a consolidated entry point positioned in a consistent corner location.
• Users will see contextual Copilot entry points when selecting content:
  • Windows and Web: inside the selection floatie
  • Mac: in the right‑click context menu
• Word Agent in the right-side chat pane becomes the primary Copilot experience for prompts and responses.
• All Copilot entry points—consolidated and contextual—will connect to Word Agent to ensure a unified experience.
• There is no change to admin configuration, policy behavior, or Copilot availability settings.

What you can do to prepare

No action is required.

You may optionally:

• Inform your users about the new Copilot access points and updated experience in Word.
• Update internal help content or training materials if you document Copilot entry points.

Compliance considerations

No compliance considerations identified. Review as appropriate for your organization.