Microsoft is making more changes to its Copilot branding—and these updates could affect how UK small and medium-sized businesses use Microsoft 365 and Windows. If you’ve been struggling to keep track of “Bing Chat,” “Microsoft 365 Copilot,” and “Copilot in Windows,” rest assured you’re not alone. Here’s a clear snapshot of what’s happening and when, plus what these changes could mean for your business.
1. Bing Chat Enterprise Renamed “Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat”
- What’s changing? In January 2025, what used to be Bing Chat Enterprise will be called Microsoft Copilot Chat
- What’s the difference? Just like Bing Chat Enterprise, Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat will require staff to sign in with their Entra ID (Formerly Azure AD). It also includes Enterprise Data Protection (EDP), ensuring prompts and responses stay within the Microsoft 365 service boundary
- Costs? Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat will remain free (unlike Microsoft 365 Copilot, which costs £24.70 per user per month). However, agents (e.g., AI helpers that tap into shared company data) may carry pay-as-you-go charges unless your staff already have a Copilot licence.
2. Microsoft 365 App Becomes “Microsoft 365 Copilot App”
- What’s changing? The Microsoft 365 app (used via Windows or the web to access OneDrive and Office apps) will soon be called the Microsoft 365 Copilot app—even for users who don’t pay for Copilot.
- New icon: Expect an updated app icon in mid-January. Microsoft is emphasising AI features, so certain existing interface elements (like “My Day”) will disappear, reflecting the new Microsoft 365 Copilot branding.
- New URLs: Microsoft will introduce M365Copilot.com. Meanwhile, office.com and microsoft365.com will redirect to m365.cloud.microsoft.
3. What’s Happening to “Copilot” on Windows?
- Previously: Microsoft hinted that Windows Copilot could change things like your system settings or integrate with Office apps directly.
- Now: That plan is on hold. In December 2024, Microsoft announced Copilot for Windows will only be available to those logged in with a Microsoft consumer account—meaning UK SMB staff signing in with their work Entra IDs may not see Copilot by default.
- Admin heads-up: If you want employees to access Windows Copilot using their business accounts, you’ll need to manually enable and manage these settings—especially if PCs come with a Copilot button on the keyboard.
4. Why All the Rebranding Matters
Microsoft’s Copilot strategy has been shifting throughout 2024. These new moves confirm the company is still refining how AI fits into its ecosystem. For UK SMBs, a few takeaways related to Microsoft 365 Copilot stand out:
- Plan for Training: With new names and icons, staff might need a quick refresher on where to find their apps and how to use them.
- Watch Licences & Costs: While Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat remains free, premium features (especially around AI agents) could incur extra charges if you’re not on a Copilot subscription.
- Stay Alert to Windows Changes: Windows Copilot’s availability for business accounts is still evolving, so watch for updates to ensure staff have the access you expect.
5. Moving Forward
As Microsoft continues to invest heavily in AI, it’s crucial that small and medium-sized businesses keep a close eye on these shifts. If you’re thinking about adopting Copilot or expanding your use of AI in Microsoft 365, be prepared to manage potential licence changes, new app icons, and evolving features.
Bottom line for UK SMBs: Microsoft has big plans for AI, including Microsoft 365 Copilot, but the roadmap is still in flux. Stay flexible, stay informed, and don’t hesitate to seek expert advice to ensure you’re getting value (and not unexpected costs) from Microsoft’s latest moves.