ToolsThe story, in brief
GPT-5.6 is now the preferred model in Microsoft 365 Copilot
GPT-5.6 is now the default across Microsoft 365. Here's what changes for 8M+ enterprise users.
The KeyNews take
Why it matters
Microsoft is quietly upgrading its entire Office suite to a newer model generation, shifting the default AI backbone for knowledge workers. This signals OpenAI's model velocity and Microsoft's confidence in GPT-5.6's stability for mission-critical productivity workflows.
The key facts
5 to knowGPT-5.6 now preferred/default model in Microsoft 365 Copilot
Deployment spans Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Chat, Cowork
Focus on faster, higher-quality work output
Enterprise-wide rollout (8M+ Microsoft 365 users potentially affected)
Published Jul 09 2026 — suggests post-release stabilization phase
Go to the source
OpenAI Blogopenai.com
Publisher excerpt: Learn how GPT-5.6 powers Microsoft 365 Copilot with stronger AI capabilities across Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Chat, and Cowork for faster, higher-quality work.