New Year, New Momentum: Here are three Copilot updates to get you started into 2026

It's a new year, so I thought I'd start the year by mentioning three features already released, or soon going to be released. One of the features improves the workflow of sharing files with comments, the other improves the application specific Copilot, and the last feature makes it easer to find the nest available timeslot for a 1:1 meeting. As with all of my other posts, timelines can shift, and the timelines in this post is as written in the Message Center at the time of posting. AI-Summary experience when sharing files. With this new feature, copilot intent to help users share files with clearer context in just a few steps. Users will get the capability to generate a concise summary of a file and include it when sharing from the File Explorer share dialog or the OneDrive activity center. This will make it easier to share the context of a file and giving the receiver a faster understanding of what a document or file contains before they open it. General Availability announced...

Upcoming updates to Viva (and Copilot)

Copilot Academy will be available for all Microsoft 365 users

Although this is technically to updates, here is a an update on Viva Learning. Microsoft is now enabling the AI and Copilot Resources provider by default for all users. This change aims to enhance the learning experience across organizations by making the provider accessible to all Viva Learning users. This will make it easier for all users of both licensed and non-licensed Copilot users to improve on their skills.

Preparation Steps: This rollout will occur automatically, requiring no admin action beforehand. However, it's crucial to review your current configuration to understand the impact on your organization. Consider notifying your users about this change and updating any relevant documentation.

Admin Management: Admins can manage the visibility of the AI and Copilot Resources provider in Viva Learning on the Admin page under the Manage providers tab and the Manage Permissions tab. Admins need the role of Global admin, Knowledge admin, or Knowledge manager, or access through Viva Learning's feature access management. For more details, visit Viva Learning Feature Access Management.

Rollout Timeline: The rollout will begin with a public preview in early April 2025 and may already be in your tenant. The general availability will begin right after the preview, and should be completed by late April 2025.

This change is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 479410 and 479415