Microsoft 365 October Updates

Introducing Microsoft 365 Companion Apps: A Smarter Way to Work

Microsoft has just unveiled a new suite of Microsoft 365 Companion Apps — lightweight, taskbar-integrated tools designed to streamline your daily workflow and boost productivity. These apps are now rolling out to Windows 11 devices and will be automatically installed for users with Microsoft 365 desktop apps. 

What Are Companion Apps?

The suite includes three powerful tools: People App, File App, & Calendar App.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 People Companion

Quickly find colleagues, view organisational charts, and initiate chats, calls, or emails — all without opening Teams or Outlook.

📁 Files Companion

Search, preview, and share your Microsoft 365 documents from OneDrive, SharePoint, Teams, and Outlook — right from your desktop.

📅 Calendar Companion

Access your calendar, join meetings, and manage appointments directly from the taskbar, with no need to open Outlook or Teams.

 These apps are powered by Microsoft Graph, which means they’re context-aware and deeply integrated with your organisation’s data. Whether you're preparing for a meeting, catching up on documents, or reaching out to a colleague, these tools are designed to reduce context switching and help you stay focused.

Why It Matters

This update is more than just a UI tweak — it’s a shift in how we interact with Microsoft 365. By embedding key functions into the Windows 11 taskbar, Microsoft is making it easier to:

• Stay connected with your team

• Access the files you need instantly

• Keep on top of your schedule

• Use AI-powered Copilot features in context

What You Need to Know

• Automatic Installation: Starting late October 2025, these apps will be silently installed on eligible Windows 11 devices.

• No Disruption: The installation happens in the background and doesn’t interrupt your work.

• Copilot Integration: These apps work seamlessly with Microsoft Copilot, enabling smarter prompts and faster actions.

How to Get Started

If you're using Windows 11 and have Microsoft 365 installed, you’ll see these apps appear in your taskbar soon. No action is needed — just start using them to simplify your day.

Our team are on hand to support these changes should you need any help, advice, or questions you may have on the new update please contact us on:

Email: help@totalit.uk

Phone : +44 (0) 1908 870360