The company's partner group product manager Katie Kivett has confirmed that while there has been signs of "increased engagement" with the AI platform due to deeper integration with Word, Excel and PowerPoint in recent weeks, "some adjustments" will be made after complaints from users about the button feeling intrusive.
In a blog post, Katie said: "While we are seeing increased engagement with Copilot in Office apps with this update, we are also hearing the need for more control over how Copilot appears.
"While one of our goals is to evolve Copilot to be more adaptive and flexible over time, we are making some adjustments in the short term."
The executive noted that they were keen to "make Microsoft 365 feel more connected and integrated with Copilot, available as a helpful thought partner" when users need it most.
That's what initially led to Word, Excel and PowerPoint getting updated "with a consolidated, more visible entry point (Dynamic Action Button) at the bottom right of the apps that suggests actions from Copilot based on your document".
She continued: "You may have noticed similar entry points in other apps across Microsoft 365, all with access to the same Copilot.
As we continue to thoughtfully and intentionally shape how Copilot integrates with the tried-and-true workflows within Word, Excel and PowerPoint that you rely on, we’re listening, learning and improving as we go.
"To that end, we're already making a few updates based on feedback."
She noted that one of these changes is "adding a Move to ribbon option", which will be rolled out next week.
Continuing to explain the updates, Katie revealed: "The Dock option will continue to be available as well when you right-click or drag to button the right.
"You can still move it back onto the canvas whenever it fits your workflow or preference, allowing for flexibility, while still keeping Copilot easy and clear to access.
"So when you want the entry point close to the canvas but out of the way, you can dock it to the edge of the window.
"We are making an update so that the button will stay docked throughout your time in the document, instead of returning to its original position every time you engage with Copilot."
The updates will start rolling out for web, Windows and Mac users next week, while the executive described them as "just a step on our journey toward a vision where Copilot is seamlessly integrated in Office to amplify, guide, and help you do your work, on your terms".
She concluded: "Stay tuned for more updates and we'll keep listening and evolving!"
