![Microsoft Copilot: New user control for web searches [MC931407]](https://mwpro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/pexels-freestockpro-1227513-1024x683.webp)
Message ID: MC931407
Coming soon: A control that allows users to control if web search queries are sent to Microsoft Bing when using Microsoft Copilot.
[When this will happen:]
General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rolling out mid-December 2024 and expect to complete by late January 2025.
[How this will affect your organization:]
Users can disable or enable web searches with the new control, which is accessible from the three-dot overflow menu:
If the user disables web search, they will be notified that Copilot responses won’t include the latest date from the web:
If an admin has disabled web search in Copilot using either optional connected experiences or the new Allow web search in Copilot policy (available November 2024 as communicated October 2024 in MC910984 Manage web searches in Copilot separately from optional connected experiences with new policy) in the Microsoft 365 admin center, the user control will remain disabled after this rollout and users will not be able to enable web search using the control.
If web search is not disabled by the admin, users can use the control in the three-dot menu to enable or disable web search as desired.
This change is on by default and available to users.
[What you need to do to prepare:]
This rollout will happen automatically by the specified date with no admin action required before or after the rollout. Review your current configuration to determine the impact for your organization. You may want to notify your users about this change and update any relevant documentation.
Learn more about controlling web search queries in Copilot: Data, privacy, and security for web queries in Microsoft 365 Copilot and Microsoft Copilot | Microsoft Learn
Source: Microsoft
![Ensuring Security and Compliance: Keep your Microsoft Teams desktop clients up to date [MC931401]](https://mwpro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/pexels-frank-cone-140140-3573555-150x150.webp)
![Microsoft Mesh: Support for audio when sharing screens in Microsoft Teams immersive events [MC932489]](https://mwpro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/pexels-evgeny-tchebotarev-1058775-2541310-150x150.webp)
The upcoming update to Microsoft Copilot, introducing user control over web search queries, is set to have a significant impact on both admins and users. With the rollout expected between mid-December 2024 and late January 2025, this change brings a refreshing level of autonomy to users while also placing a bit more responsibility on the shoulders of administrators.
For users, the ability to toggle web searches on or off via the handy three-dot overflow menu is a game-changer. This means they can decide when they want Copilot to fetch the latest information from Microsoft Bing. However, it’s important to note that if they choose to disable the web search, they’ll be reminded that their responses might lack the most current data—a gentle nudge towards staying informed. It’s like having a smart assistant that respects your preferences, but also gives you a friendly reminder to stay updated.
On the other hand, admins will need to be proactive in managing this feature. If they decide to disable web search through the admin center, users won’t have the option to enable it again. This could lead to some interesting conversations in the office—think of it as a digital version of “who moved my cheese?” Admins will need to communicate clearly with their teams about the implications of these settings to ensure everyone is on the same page.
As for the overall impact, this change represents a step towards greater user empowerment in the digital workspace. It fosters a sense of control that can enhance productivity and user satisfaction. However, it also highlights the need for clear communication and understanding between admins and users.
I encourage everyone to share their thoughts on this update! How do you think this will affect your daily tasks? Will you be embracing the new control, or do you prefer to leave it up to your admin? Let’s hear your opinions and experiences!
For more insights and discussions, feel free to check out other posts at mwpro.co.uk.