Gavin Jones
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read

Exciting Updates in Microsoft 365 Co-Pilot Wave 2

Top 10 New Microsoft Teams Features in the August 2024 Update

Microsoft recently announced significant enhancements to its Co-Pilot for Microsoft 365, marking the introduction of Wave 2. Whether you’re a casual user or a dedicated professional, these updates promise to streamline your workflow and enhance collaboration. Let’s break down what’s new!

1. Free vs. Paid Co-Pilot

One of the key changes is the clarification of Co-Pilot’s structure. Users can now choose between a free version and a paid subscription. The paid Co-Pilot provides access across all Microsoft apps, allowing users to harness AI capabilities securely with their internal data. In contrast, the free version is now referred to as "Business Chat," offering limited features but still facilitating effective communication.

2. Introduction of Co-Pilot Pages

A standout feature in this update is the introduction of Co-Pilot Pages. This new functionality allows users to pin responses during Co-Pilot chats and edit them in a dedicated interface. While it aims to enhance collaboration, it raises questions about its integration with Loop, Microsoft’s collaborative workspace tool. Clarity on navigation between these features is essential for maximizing productivity.

3. Enhanced Excel Capabilities

Excel users will be pleased to learn that Co-Pilot is now generally available, complete with Python integration for advanced data analysis. This development allows users to leverage Excel's powerful capabilities more effectively, making data manipulation and visualization easier than ever.

4. PowerPoint Improvements

In addition to Excel, PowerPoint has seen substantial updates. Co-Pilot can now utilize your organization's branding templates and assist in narrative building for presentations. This feature could save time when creating slides, although its effectiveness remains to be fully evaluated.

5. Upgrades in Outlook and Teams

Outlook has also received a makeover, with new AI-driven email summarization and a priority inbox feature. These improvements allow users to manage their emails more efficiently, providing context and urgency right at the preview stage. Meanwhile, Co-Pilot's integration with Teams has been enhanced to include search functionality in meeting chats and transcripts, promoting more effective communication during discussions.

6. Understanding Co-Pilot Agents

Another noteworthy addition is the introduction of Co-Pilot agents, which can automate tasks within SharePoint and Business Chat. However, the licensing requirements for these agents can be complex, requiring users to navigate additional fees for Co-Pilot Studio. Understanding the ROI of these agents will be crucial for organizations considering their implementation.

Conclusion

Microsoft 365 Co-Pilot Wave 2 brings a wealth of new features designed to improve productivity and collaboration. From enhanced capabilities in Excel and PowerPoint to the introduction of Co-Pilot Pages and agents, these updates are set to make a significant impact on how users interact with Microsoft 365 tools. As we explore these features, it will be interesting to see how they evolve and whether they truly enhance our work efficiency.

If you found this breakdown helpful, be sure to share your thoughts in the comments!

What features are you most excited to try?

Stay tuned for more updates and tips on maximizing your Microsoft 365 experience!

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