Table of Contents
Summary
- The Microsoft 365 apps for Mac suite installer will include a shim for the Microsoft 365 Copilot app, simplifying deployment for organizations.
- Users will be able to download and install the full Microsoft 365 Copilot app directly from the shim app located in the Applications folder.
- Existing Microsoft 365 app installations on macOS will not be affected by this change.
- Organizations needing to deploy Microsoft 365 Copilot to devices with existing installations must deploy the shim app separately.
- Preparation includes ensuring the shim app is included in the deployment, verifying Microsoft AutoUpdate is enabled, and confirming devices meet minimum macOS requirements.
Admin Impact: Medium
User Impact: Low
Release Start: 15 Feb 2026
Release End: 15 Mar 2026
Services: M365, M365 Apps
Category: Stay informed
Tags: User Adoption, Admin Action
History
2/10/2026 Item Added to Message Center
Microsoft Message
Introduction
Starting in mid‑February 2026, the Microsoft 365 apps for Mac suite installer will include a shim for the Microsoft 365 Copilot app. This change helps organizations more easily deploy the Microsoft 365 Copilot Mac app by enabling users to download the full application directly from the shim.
The Microsoft 365 Copilot Mac app brings AI assistance to macOS, helping users search, analyze, and create from a single, secure desktop experience.
When this will happen
General Availability (Worldwide): Rollout will begin in mid‑February 2026 and is expected to complete by mid‑March 2026.
How this affects your organization
Who is affected: Organizations that deploy Microsoft 365 apps for Mac using the suite installation package.
What will happen:
- The Microsoft 365 apps for Mac suite installer will include the Microsoft 365 Copilot shim app.
- Users will be able to download and install the full Microsoft 365 Copilot app by opening the shim app from the Applications folder.
- Existing installations of Microsoft 365 apps on macOS are not affected.
- Organizations that want to deploy Microsoft 365 Copilot to devices already running Microsoft 365 apps should deploy the shim app separately.
What you can do to prepare
If your organization deploys Microsoft 365 apps for Mac using the suite installer package:
- Ensure the Microsoft 365 Copilot shim app is not excluded during deployment.
- Confirm that Microsoft AutoUpdate (MAU) is enabled on macOS devices.
- Confirm that devices meet the minimum requirement of macOS 14.0 (Sonoma) or later.
- Ensure network connectivity is available so the shim app can download the full app.
- This guidance is applicable for all users, not specifically those who want to deploy the shim app separately.
- Review: Deployment guide for Office for Mac | Microsoft 365 | Microsoft Learn.
Compliance considerations
No compliance considerations identified. Review as appropriate for your organization.