Microsoft has announced an important change for Excel users: the experimental COPILOT worksheet function will no longer be available starting September 14, 2026. The function allowed users to send a prompt along with spreadsheet references and receive an AI-generated response. It was available through Microsoft 365 Insider and Frontier programs for eligible users.
The change does not mean that Microsoft is removing AI from Excel. Microsoft says Copilot in Excel is generally available and supports many of the same AI-powered tasks. This distinction is important because users may come across older tutorials showing formulas such as =COPILOT(…) and assume they should continue using them.
For learners, teachers and office professionals, this is a good reminder that software skills must be kept up to date. An Excel tutorial published several months ago may already contain a feature that is being replaced or retired.
Instead of building new workflows around the COPILOT() formula, users should learn how to use the current Copilot experience in Excel, while continuing to understand Excel fundamentals such as formulas, tables, sorting, filtering and data analysis.
For example, a learner might traditionally use Excel formulas to calculate sales totals and percentages. With Copilot in Excel, AI can assist with analysis and help users work with information more efficiently. However, understanding the underlying spreadsheet remains important for checking whether the result is correct.
The September 14 date is particularly relevant for students, trainers and content creators who have recently learned or taught the experimental function. Existing educational material should be reviewed so that outdated instructions do not continue circulating.
