Microsoft Office users have expressed dissatisfaction with the recent rebranding of the software suite by the tech giant. The suite, featuring applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote, was initially introduced in 1990 and has amassed a massive user base of 400 million globally.
Recently, users were surprised with a notification informing them of the name change. The message welcomed them to the “Microsoft 365 Copilot app,” emphasizing its capabilities in creating, sharing, and collaborating seamlessly with integrated apps, including Copilot.
Copilot, launched in 2023 to replace Cortana, is an AI chatbot designed to enhance user productivity by automating tasks and generating content.
In response to the rebranding, software developer Peter Dedene criticized the move, lamenting the change from Microsoft Office to “Microsoft 365 Copilot.” Another individual compared the rebranding to renaming Twitter to X, expressing frustration at the decision-making process within the company.
While some users criticized the rebranding as detrimental to the brand’s recognition, others pointed out that the shift towards an AI-centric image began in 2020 with the introduction of Microsoft 365.
Microsoft explained that the renaming was to reflect the integration of Copilot within the Microsoft 365 app, emphasizing the app’s role in enhancing productivity across work, education, and personal use.
Gareth Oystryk, Senior Director of Marketing at Microsoft 365, clarified that only the Office “hub” app was renamed to Microsoft 365 in November 2022, with further updates to the Microsoft 365 Copilot app in January 2025 to highlight its role in combining Copilot and Microsoft 365 experiences.
Users were advised to ensure they are connected to the internet and restart the app to see the changes reflected on web, mobile, and Windows platforms.