# Excel's Copilot function is headed for the Recycle Bin

Published: 2026-08-17 · Updated: 2026-08-17 · Category: Product Launch

Source page: https://www.sipply.dev/story/excels-copilot-function-is-headed-for-the-recycle-bin-52566558 · 中文: https://www.sipply.dev/zh/story/excels-copilot-function-is-headed-for-the-recycle-bin-52566558

## Summary

Microsoft has announced the retirement of its COPILOT() function in Excel, which will officially be removed on September 14, 2026. This decision comes less than a year after the feature's introduction, indicating a shift in Microsoft's strategy regarding AI integration in its products. The company plans to streamline the Copilot experience by focusing on a side pane for AI assistance instead of the standalone function. This move reflects a broader trend in software development where companies continuously refine their offerings based on user feedback and usage patterns.

## Key takeaways

- Microsoft is discontinuing the COPILOT() function in Excel.
- The retirement is set for September 14, 2026, less than a year after launch.
- Microsoft is shifting focus to a side pane for AI assistance.

## Why it matters

This change highlights the rapid evolution of AI features in productivity software and the importance of user experience in determining which features succeed.

- **Product managers:** Product managers should take note of how user feedback can lead to significant changes in product features, emphasizing the need for continuous iteration and adaptation.
- **Developers:** Developers should be aware of the shifting landscape of AI functionalities, as this may influence how they design and implement features in future software projects.
- **Students and job seekers:** For students and job-seekers, understanding the lifecycle of software features can provide insights into industry trends and the importance of adaptability in tech roles.

## Sources

- [Excel's Copilot function is headed for the Recycle Bin](https://www.theregister.com/ai-and-ml/2026/08/17/excels-copilot-function-is-headed-for-the-recycle-bin/5288327) (The Register AI, 2026-08-17)

## 中文

### Excel的Copilot功能即将被淘汰

微软宣布将在2026年9月14日正式退休Excel中的COPILOT()功能。这一决定是在该功能推出不到一年的时间内做出的，表明微软在其产品中对AI集成的战略发生了变化。公司计划通过专注于侧边栏的AI辅助来简化Copilot体验，而不是继续使用独立功能。这一举措反映了软件开发中的一种更广泛趋势，即公司根据用户反馈和使用模式不断优化其产品。

**要点：**

- 微软将停止Excel中的COPILOT()功能。
- 该功能的退休定于2026年9月14日，推出不到一年。
- 微软将重点转向侧边栏的AI辅助。

**为什么重要：** 这一变化突显了生产力软件中AI功能的快速演变，以及用户体验在决定哪些功能成功方面的重要性。

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