Microsoft rebranded its Office suite as Microsoft 365 Copilot app, sparking user backlash over privacy concerns and forced AI integration. The change, announced in early 2025, replaces the iconic Office name that generated over $30 billion last quarter alone.
Users now access Word, Excel, and PowerPoint through the Microsoft 365 Copilot app interface. The Office.com homepage redirects to Microsoft 365 plans bundling Copilot, according to support documentation. This marks Microsoft's third major rebranding since Office 365 launched in 2010.
Online forums show widespread frustration with the confusing naming scheme. A Hacker News user called the rebrand "absolutely abysmal marketing" in a January 5, 2026 post. A Reddit user in the Windows 11 community reported confusion when the rename appeared on devices in January 2025.
Privacy concerns center on Windows Recall, which takes passive snapshots every few seconds. XDA-Developers described the feature as "creepy" and "a security camera recording you 24/7." Users complain about unwanted AI pop-ups and cloud connectivity requirements for Copilot features.
Microsoft simultaneously redesigns Edge browser with Copilot-inspired UI elements. The visual refresh features rounded corners and color schemes matching Copilot's design language. These changes appear in Canary and Dev channel builds, according to Windows Central.
The company positions Copilot as the central interface for work through its Work IQ intelligence backbone. Weekly Voice reports Microsoft aims to make Copilot "the operating layer for modern work" rather than a feature attached to individual apps.
Enterprise adoption contrasts with individual user resistance. Larger organizations integrate Copilot for efficiency gains, while small businesses find AI tools underwhelming. The Economic Times reported the rebrand coincided with Microsoft 365 subscription price increases.
Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman confirmed last year the company plans to evolve Edge rather than create a new AI-focused browser. "There isn't going to be a new browser; this is just going to be one experience," Suleyman told The Verge.
Users can disable Windows Recall snapshots through Settings while keeping Copilot Vision functionality. Exclusion lists prevent sensitive apps like banking software from being captured. These privacy controls address some concerns but require manual configuration.
The rebranding represents Microsoft's aggressive push to make AI ubiquitous across its ecosystem. Whether users accept this AI-centric direction will determine if the gamble strengthens Microsoft's dominance or drives customers to alternatives.
