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Microsoft 365 Copilot: Create and view Outlook rules
Outlook will enable Microsoft 365 Copilot to create and view Inbox rules using natural language, simplifying rule management without navigating settings. This feature, requiring a Copilot license, rolls out globally from late January to early March 2026, is on by default, and aligns with existing Outlook policies.
Introduction
Outlook is adding new Microsoft 365 Copilot capabilities that let users create and view Inbox rules using natural language. This update helps users stay organized more efficiently by allowing them to ask Copilot to set up new rules or list existing rules directly in chat, without navigating Outlook settings.
A Microsoft 365 Copilot license is required to access this new feature.
When this will happen
General Availability (Worldwide): We began rolling out in late January 2026 and expect to complete by early March 2026.
How this affects your organization
Who is affected: Users who have access to Microsoft 365 Copilot in Outlook.
What will happen:
- Users can create new Inbox rules through natural language prompts (for example: “Create a rule to move emails from my manager to a Manager folder.”).
- Users can ask Copilot to show their existing Inbox rules, including rule names, conditions, actions, and status.
- Rules created with Copilot operate the same as rules created through Outlook settings:
- Rules apply only to future incoming messages.
- Existing messages are not automatically moved or modified.
- All rules are visible and manageable through Outlook’s native Rules settings.
- The feature is on by default for eligible users and respects all existing Outlook and Exchange policies.
What you can do to prepare
No action is required from administrators.
If your helpdesk or documentation references Outlook rule creation, you may wish to update it to reflect natural‑language rule management through Copilot.
Compliance considerations
No compliance considerations identified. Review as appropriate for your organization.
Message ID: MC1223821
