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Microsoft 365 Companions are designed to show you important data in just a click from the Windows taskbar.
By Tom Warren, a senior editor and author of Notepad, who has been covering all things Microsoft, PC, and tech for over 20 years.
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In a move aimed at enhancing user experience, Microsoft is unveiling a new companions feature for the Windows 11 taskbar, designed to provide users with quick access to essential information. The Microsoft 365 Companions will seamlessly integrate contacts, files, and calendar appointments, making them just a click away from the taskbar.
During the Microsoft Ignite 2024 event, Windows chief Pavan Davuluri shared insights into this innovative feature, stating, “We will bring Microsoft 365 People, Files, and Calendar to your taskbar so your Graph data is just a click away.” While the specifics of this new companions experience remain under wraps, it bears a striking resemblance to the existing functionality of the Phone Link app on Windows 11.
The Phone Link app, introduced with the Windows 11 24H2 update, offers a companion experience adjacent to the Start menu, allowing users to effortlessly view recent messages, calls, and even their phone’s battery status without needing to open the app. This new addition appears to extend that convenience to Microsoft 365 users.
A visual presentation at the Ignite event showcased a floating panel of contacts, reminiscent of Microsoft’s earlier integration of Teams into the taskbar. However, it remains uncertain whether this Microsoft 365 Companions feature will allow third-party developers to incorporate their applications into the taskbar in a similar manner.
As inquiries continue, I have reached out to Microsoft for further clarification on the Microsoft 365 Companions, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
