(Updated) Microsoft 365 Copilot: Create and view Outlook rules [MC1223821]

Message ID: MC1223821 (Updated)

Updated February 2, 2026: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience. 

[Introduction]

Outlook is adding new Microsoft 365 Copilot capabilities that let users create and view Inbox rules using natural language. This update helps users stay organized more efficiently by allowing them to ask Copilot to set up new rules or list existing rules directly in chat, without navigating Outlook settings.

A Microsoft 365 Copilot license is required to access this new feature.

[When this will happen]

General Availability (Worldwide): We began rolling out in early February 2026 (previously late January) and expect to complete by mid-March 2026 (previously early March).

[How this affects your organization]

Who is affected: Users who have access to Microsoft 365 Copilot in Outlook.

What will happen:

• Users can create new Inbox rules through natural language prompts (for example: “Create a rule to move emails from my manager to a Manager folder.”).

  

• Users can ask Copilot to show their existing Inbox rules, including rule names, conditions, actions, and status.
• Rules created with Copilot operate the same as rules created through Outlook settings:
  • Rules apply only to future incoming messages.
  • Existing messages are not automatically moved or modified.
  • All rules are visible and manageable through Outlook’s native Rules settings.
• The feature is on by default for eligible users and respects all existing Outlook and Exchange policies.

[What you can do to prepare]

No action is required from administrators.

If your helpdesk or documentation references Outlook rule creation, you may wish to update it to reflect natural‑language rule management through Copilot.

[Compliance considerations]

No compliance considerations identified. Review as appropriate for your organization.

Source: Microsoft

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