Upcoming Changes to Microsoft 365

Microsoft is introducing major updates in late 2025 and 2026, with a strong focus on AI integration through Copilot, enhanced security via Defender and Purview, new Teams licensing in Microsoft 365, and retiring older features like Publisher (Oct 2026) and the Whiteboard Insert Document tool (Jan 2026). Additional updates include Windows recovery improvements, expanded endpoint management, and centralized admin actions in the Microsoft 365 Admin Center.

Key Themes & Updates

AI & Security

• Copilot: Becoming central to Microsoft 365 with new security controls in the Admin Center.

• Defender: Expanded phishing and malware protection included in E3/E5 suites.

• Purview: Insider Risk Management now covers AI agent governance.

• Defender Experts: New integrated security service offering.

Microsoft 365 & Teams

• Licensing: Reintroduction of enterprise suites “with Teams” and “without Teams.”

• Teams Features: Chat with Anyone via email, new apps in Shared Channels, and admin controls for external collaboration.

• Admin Tools: Consolidated management of endpoints and security tasks.

Feature Retirements & Changes

• Microsoft Publisher: Support ends October 2026.

• Microsoft Whiteboard: Insert Document feature retires January 2026 (use images or Teams instead).

• Send to Kindle: Retiring from Word in March 2026 (use Amazon’s website).

Windows & Devices

• Windows Recovery: New tools for faster machine recovery and point-in-time restore.

• Windows 10: Official support ended October 14, 2025.

Staying Updated

• Microsoft 365 Roadmap: Track upcoming features and changes.

• Message Center: Admin Center announcements for official updates.

These changes aim to enhance productivity, strengthen security, and provide more flexibility as Microsoft transitions to an AI-driven ecosystem.