OneDrive adds Copilot integration, new AI tools & makes Word files cloud-saved by default

Microsoft is integrating Copilot into OneDrive and adding several new AI-powered tools, including a floating Copilot icon on the web interface with options for file summarization, comparisons, and audio overviews. A new Hero link now allows permanent sharing links with adjustable permissions, and recipients can request instant Copilot-generated summaries of shared content.

OneDrive’s search bar now supports natural language queries, returning ChatGPT-style responses based on stored documents. Users can also create knowledge agents tied to specific folders to answer questions and summarize files. The M365 Copilot Researcher agent is also coming to OneDrive for the web to assist with multi-step research. On Windows 11, Microsoft is developing a redesigned OneDrive app with a refreshed Photos tab featuring gallery and people views, AI-driven slideshows, and editing tools. The new Photos Agent uses natural language to find, organize, and share photos, while photo stacks automatically group duplicates and blurry images.

Ironically, one of the most significant yet briefly mentioned changes that will surely frustrate many users is that starting today, all new Microsoft Word documents on desktop will be saved to OneDrive by default with autosave turned on, though users can still disable this setting and choose to save files locally if they prefer (or notice). This means documents and edits will now sync automatically across devices, with real-time collaboration and backup features active from the start. However, this shift toward cloud storage may also push some users to upgrade their OneDrive plans once their available space runs out.