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

Starting October 2025, Microsoft will automatically install the Microsoft 365 Copilot app on Windows devices with Microsoft 365 desktop apps, except in the EEA. The app appears in the Start menu, enabled by default, with admins able to opt out and prepare users accordingly.

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Major Update: This post contains a significant change that may impact your organisation.

Introduction

Starting in October 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 October 2025 and completes mid-November 2025

How this affects your organization

Who is affected:

  • Organizations with Windows devices running Microsoft 365 desktop client apps
  • Customers outside the European Economic Area (EEA) (EEA customers are excluded)
  • Admins responsible for managing Microsoft 365 Apps deployments
  • Users on eligible devices who will see the Microsoft 365 Copilot app appear in their Start menu

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

  • Review the documentation for more details and instructions on how to manage this.
  • You can opt out of the installation in the Microsoft 365 Apps Admin Center. 
  • Consider notifying helpdesk and users to reduce confusion and support requests.
  • Update internal documentation if you reference installed apps or Copilot access points.

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.