(Updated) New "Prepare" button added to the "Up Next" card for Microsoft 365 Copilot users

Updated March 3, 2026: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.

[Introduction]

To help users better prepare for upcoming meetings, Microsoft is enhancing the Up Next card experience in Microsoft 365. A new Prepare button will replace the Join button up to 5 minutes before a meeting starts, offering a one-tap way to access Copilot’s meeting preparation tools. This update supports improved productivity and readiness, aligning with feedback for more proactive meeting support.

Screenshot 1: Tap Prepare in Up Next.

Screenshot 2: Users can prepare with Copilot Chat.

[When this will happen:]

• General Availability (Worldwide, GCC, GCC High, DoD): Rollout begins April 2026 (previously March) and is expected to complete by end of April 2026 (previously end of March).

[How this affects your organization:]

• Who is affected: Users with a Microsoft 365 Copilot Premium license.
• What will happen:
  • The Up Next card will display a Prepare button instead of Join until 5 minutes before a meeting.
  • This button provides quick access to Copilot’s meeting preparation features.
  • No changes to admin settings or policies are required.
  • The feature is enabled by default for eligible users.

[What you can do to prepare:]

• No admin action is required at this time.
• You may wish to:
  • Inform helpdesk and support teams of the upcoming change.
  • Share this support article with users: Prepare for your meeting with Copilot
  • Update internal documentation if you reference the Up Next card or meeting workflows.

[Compliance considerations:]

No compliance considerations identified, review as appropriate for your organization.