Microsoft is scrapping the =COPILOT function from Excel after only a year since its release

Published Aug 15, 2026, 2:48 AM EDT Simon is a Computer Science BSc graduate who has been writing about technology since 2014, and using Windows machines since 3.1. After working for an indie game studio and acting as the family's go-to technician for all computer issues, he found his passion for writing and decided to use his skill set to write about all things tech. Since beginning his writing career, he has written for many different publications such as WorldStart, Listverse, and MakeTechEasier. However, after finding his home at MakeUseOf in February 2019, he would eventually move on to its sister site, XDA, to bring the latest and greatest in Windows, Linux, and DIY electronics. Sign in to your XDA account Summary Microsoft removes the Excel =COPILOT function on Sept 14, 2026. Use the Copilot side pane for the same AI features: summaries, classification, content generation. =COPILOT calls stop working after Sept 14, 2026; AI features unified into one supported interface. Almost exactly a year ago, we caught wind that Microsoft was adding a =COPILOT tool to Excel. The idea behind the feature was that you didn't need to manually type out a formula; instead, you told Copilot what you wanted in plain English, and it would do all the hard work for you. This was back in 2025, when AI companies were mostly throwing out things and seeing what sticks. Now that companies are moving more toward putting all their AI features into one hub, Microsoft is scrapping the =COPILOT tool, because the actual Copilot assistant can do it anyway. But you can still prod Copilot via the side pane As spotted by Neowin, the Redmond giant sent out a communication via the Microsoft 365 Message Center. Titled "MC1454373 - Frontier =COPILOT function in Excel will no longer be available," the company explains what's happening and why: Beginning September 14, 2026, the =COPILOT function in Microsoft Excel will no longer be available. This function is currently offered as a preview feature through the Insider and Frontier programs. Customers can continue using Copilot in Excel through the Copilot side pane, which provides many of the same AI-powered capabilities, including summarizing text, classifying data, generating content, and retrieving information from the web. This change helps streamline the Copilot experience within Excel while continuing to provide AI assistance through a supported interface. Once September 14, 2026 rolls around, users will no longer be able to invoke Microsoft's AI via the =COPILOT call. If you still need to use the AI assistant to help you write functions by describing them in plain English, you can use the Copilot side pane instead. Microsoft is basically bringing all of its AI functionality under one roof, so ideally, you won't lose anything from this move.