December 29, 2024 – Microsoft has announced plans to rename its Microsoft 365 app to Microsoft 365 Copilot, effective mid-January 2025. This change is not merely cosmetic, as it also involves modifications to the application’s icon and user interface.
The renaming underscores Microsoft’s commitment to the Copilot brand, which has already been featured on several shipped PCs with a dedicated Copilot key, albeit currently serving a somewhat awkward role. It appears that Microsoft is now taking further steps to integrate the Copilot identity into its core product offering.
With the renaming of Microsoft 365 to Microsoft 365 Copilot, the company aims to strengthen the Copilot brand image and align it more closely with its flagship product suite. The new app icon, featuring vibrant Copilot colors such as blue, yellow, pink, and purple, will sport the “M365” moniker at the bottom, signifying the union of the two brands.
In addition to the visual updates, the user interface of the application has undergone a redesign. Microsoft has removed the title bar and the “back” button, relocating all buttons to a left sidebar for easier navigation. Meanwhile, Copilot functionalities have been prominently positioned at the top, highlighting their importance within the new interface.
Overall, the renaming and redesign reflect Microsoft’s strategy to unify its product offering under the Copilot umbrella, strengthening the brand’s identity and integrating advanced features into its core applications.