Windows 11 Will Mandate Installation of Three Copilot Apps for Microsoft 365 Enterprise Users

In an official announcement, Microsoft has revealed its plans to automatically install three Companion apps—People, Calendar, and File Search—on Windows 11 systems that are running Microsoft 365. Notably, this rollout will primarily target enterprise users, although individuals can opt out if they wish. Microsoft believes that integrating these Companion apps, enhanced with Copilot features, will significantly boost user productivity.

The introduction of Microsoft 365 Companion apps was first shared in March 2025. Microsoft clarified during the announcement that these applications are specifically tailored for enterprise environments, and that remains their focus. Furthermore, users looking to leverage the capabilities of People, Calendar, and File Search can choose to do so at their discretion.

According to a recent support document from Microsoft, updated in August 2025, “Microsoft 365 companion apps are available for everyone to download.”This implies that organization-wide deployment is possible, yet it did not suggest an automatic installation. However, as the situation evolved, Microsoft has shifted its narrative, indicating a mandatory installation approach unless users take action to opt out.

As of late October 2025, Microsoft is slated to initiate the automatic installation of these Companion apps on Windows 11 devices that already have Microsoft 365 desktop client applications.“These taskbar-integrated applications aim to streamline daily workflows, enabling users to maintain focus, minimize context switching, and expeditiously complete their tasks, ” the company stated.

Overview of Microsoft 365 Companion Apps: People, Calendar, and File Search

Microsoft 365 Companion app People with Copilot

The first of these apps, named “People, ” is distinct from the previously existing People app in Windows 10. This new web-based application allows users to view profiles and contact details of co-workers effortlessly. For instance, during meetings, users can quickly access an employee’s contact information or job graph by clicking on the People app pinned in the taskbar.

Ask Copilot in File Search app for Microsoft 365

The second app, Files, facilitates quicker access to files shared within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. Its integration with Copilot allows users to retrieve documents using descriptive phrases rather than needing the exact file names.

Lastly, the Calendar app integrates seamlessly with Outlook and Teams to provide users an organized perspective of their schedules and meetings, while also connecting with Copilot for enhanced functionality.

These three Companion apps are deemed significantly beneficial due to their Copilot integration. With Copilot’s assistance, users can easily summarize files, catch up on meetings, and collaborate effectively with colleagues. Regardless of individual user opinions about these applications, it’s important to recognize that they will be installed automatically.

“Installation is enabled by default and does not require user interaction, ” Microsoft indicates.“The apps will be featured in the Start menu, providing instant access to people, files, and calendar data sourced from the Microsoft Graph.”

Steps to Prevent Installation of Microsoft 365 Companion Apps on Windows 11

If you are a Windows 11 user with Microsoft 365 installed and wish to opt out of the automatic installation of the Companion apps, follow these steps:

Navigate to the Microsoft 365 apps admin center.
Go to Customization > Device Configuration > Modern App, and select Microsoft 365 companion apps.
Disable Enable automatic installation of Microsoft 365 companion apps and Microsoft 365 Apps.
Save your changes.

If you are using Windows 10, you can rest easy; this policy only impacts Windows 11 users. According to Microsoft, the rollout for the automatic installation of the Microsoft 365 Companion apps will commence in late October 2025 and conclude by December 2025, so there’s a brief window to opt out.

In instances where a user does not opt out and the apps are installed, removal is always an option, along with opting out again to block further installations. Currently, only organizations will experience these changes; individual account holders need not worry. However, there is speculation that these apps might eventually become accessible on consumer devices.

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