Open Outlook emails directly in Copilot chat

Starting mid-February 2026, users can open Outlook emails directly within Microsoft 365 Copilot chat, viewing emails side-by-side without changing permissions or admin settings. This feature is enabled by default, requires no admin action, and aims to reduce context switching.

[Introduction]

We’re introducing a new capability that enables users to open Outlook emails directly within any full‑app Microsoft 365 Copilot experience, including Copilot chat. This enhancement helps reduce context switching by allowing users to view referenced emails alongside their Copilot interaction.

[When this will happen:]

General Availability (Worldwide): rollout begins mid-February 2026 and is expected to complete by late February 2026.

[How this affects your organization:]

Who is affected:

• All users who access Microsoft 365 Copilot full‑app experiences, including Copilot chat.

What will happen:

• Users will be able to open Outlook emails directly from references or sources shown in Copilot chat.
• Emails will open side‑by‑side within the Copilot experience.
• The feature is enabled by default.
• Existing Microsoft 365 permissions and data access models remain unchanged.
• No changes are made to Outlook, Exchange Online, or Copilot admin controls.

[What you can do to prepare:]

• No administrator action is required.
• Update internal documentation if needed.

[Compliance considerations:]

No compliance considerations identified, review as appropriate for your organization.