Microsoft Adds Dedicated Copilot Ribbon Button to Classic Outlook for Commercial Users
Microsoft is rolling out a dedicated Copilot button to the ribbon interface for all classic Outlook commercial users, creating a simplified entry point for its AI assistant (MC1441784). Additionally, Outlook Classic is adding an 'Explain this' feature (MC1311978), enabling users to highlight text in emails to generate instant Copilot explanations. Placing a prominent Copilot button directly on the primary ribbon makes generative AI tools significantly easier to reach during everyday email workflows. This user interface tweak aims to boost engagement and adoption rates for Microsoft 365 Copilot among corporate users who still rely on the legacy desktop app. The update retains the existing Copilot sidebar while introducing inbox context awareness so the AI can assist based on surrounding email content. General commercial users with Copilot licenses will receive the feature by late September, whereas U.S. government environments (GCC, GCC-High, DoD) are scheduled for late October.
## BACKGROUND
Microsoft 365 Copilot is an AI assistant integrated across Microsoft's productivity suite to summarize conversations, generate text, and automate office tasks. Classic Outlook refers to the traditional desktop application (Win32) preferred by many enterprises for its extensive feature set, distinguishing it from the web-based 'New Outlook' client.