Short Version
Microsoft is introducing a new side-by-side drafting experience in Outlook. Due early March to late April 2026.
Details
The Draft with Copilot screen tip (1) is being replaced with Start typing or Help me write (2), and there’s a tweak to the icons:
It appears that selecting Help me write will open the side-by-side drafting experience. Note the Outlook icon (3) in the prompt box indication Copilot chat is in Agent mode:
You can then collaborate with Copilot in real time to refine, expand, or rewrite content directly within the email:
Availability
Due early March to late April 2026.
Source, related links, and references
MC1239932.
Image(s): Microsoft.
See what’s new in Copilot and Outlook.
Page originally published
4th March 2026, and kept up to date.
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