Updated December 3, 2025: We have updated the timeline. This feature will be enabled for en-US only initially. Thank you for your patience.
[Introduction:]
Audio summaries help users absorb content quickly, but they’ve traditionally been passive, one-way experiences. Listeners can’t clarify, explore, or dive deeper without breaking flow — forcing them to pause, switch modes, and manually search for answers. Based on feedback for more dynamic and immersive audio experiences, Microsoft is introducing real-time voice interactions in Podcast. The new interactive podcast feature transforms this into a dynamic, conversational experience, where users can join the hosts’ discussion of their document, ask questions in real time, and uncover insights naturally — staying immersed while gaining understanding faster.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 523206.
[When this will happen:]
General Availability (Worldwide): Rollout will begin in early January 2026 (previously late November 2025) and is expected to complete by end of January 2026 (previously late December 2025).
[How this affects your organization:]
- Who is affected: Customers with Copilot licenses who generate audio overviews.
- What will happen:
- Users will be able to join podcast conversations and ask questions in real time.
- The feature enhances document-based podcasts with interactive voice capabilities.
- The feature will be ON by default for eligible users.
- No changes to existing admin policies are required.
[What you can do to prepare:]
- No admin action is required.
- Communicate this change to helpdesk staff.
- Update internal documentation if you reference podcast or audio overview features.
- For more information, refer to upcoming documentation in the Microsoft Learn portal.
[Compliance considerations:]
No compliance considerations identified, review as appropriate for your organization.