Microsoft updates Microsoft 365 Copilot with a faster, cleaner design

In short: Microsoft is rolling out a redesigned Microsoft 365 Copilot that it says loads twice as fast and makes answers easier to scan.

What happened

Microsoft announced a revamped version of Microsoft 365 Copilot, its built-in assistant for Microsoft 365 apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The company says the new design loads twice as fast and looks cleaner.

Microsoft also says Copilot will give more “structured” responses. In plain terms, that means the answer should be organized in a way that is easier to skim, like using clear sections, lists, or headings instead of one long block of text.

The update is rolling out on both desktop and mobile. It includes a feature Microsoft calls “progressive disclosure.” That means Copilot will show you the tools and options you need based on what you type, instead of showing everything at once (like a remote control that only lights up the buttons you are using).

Microsoft also upgraded Copilot’s prompt box, which is the text field where you type your request. You can format text directly in that box, and it will expand to fit longer text you type or paste.

Inside Microsoft 365 apps, Copilot still opens in a side panel. You can also open a chat window from inside a specific spot, such as a paragraph in a document, a cell in a spreadsheet, or a slide in a presentation.

Why it matters

Many people use Microsoft 365 every day at work and school, so small changes can add up. Faster loading and cleaner, more organized answers can make it easier to get help without breaking your focus, especially when you are editing a document or checking numbers.

Source: The Verge AI