Microsoft Announces Two New Microsoft 365 Companion Apps for Windows 11

Microsoft Announces Two New Microsoft 365 Companion Apps for Windows 11

  • 21.03.2025 00:00
  • thurrott.com
  • Keywords: Microsoft, Windows 11, Companion Apps, File Search, People App

Microsoft introduced two new companion apps for Windows 11: File Search and People. These apps are available in preview to Microsoft 365 commercial users with active subscriptions. File Search helps locate files by content or filters, while People organizes contacts with profiles and organizational tools.

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Announced two new companion apps, File Search and People, for Microsoft 365 commercial customers. These apps are available on Windows 11 as part of the Microsoft 365 Insider program's Beta channel. They require an active Microsoft 365 subscription with desktop Office apps installed. The apps aim to streamline workflows by helping users find files and contacts more efficiently.

Windows 11

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Analyst rating: N/A

Host platform for the new companion apps, File Search and People.

Context

Analysis of Microsoft's New Microsoft 365 Companion Apps for Windows 11

Key Facts and Data Points

  • Release Date: March 21, 2025
  • Apps Announced: File Search and People
  • Availability: Currently in preview form on Windows 11 for users in the Beta channel of the Microsoft 365 Insider program
  • Requirements:
    • Active Microsoft 365 subscription (Enterprise or Business Edition)
    • Desktop Office apps installed

App Features

File Search

  • Designed to help locate Microsoft 365 files without knowing file names.
  • Supports:
    • Content-based search
    • People and file type filters
    • Inline file previews and sharing

People

  • Aims to provide insights into organizational contacts.
  • Features:
    • Profile cards for individuals
    • Organizational charts
    • Built-in search by job title, department, location, or project
    • Direct messaging via Teams

Market Implications

Productivity Enhancement

  • ** streamlined workflows**: The apps are designed to save time and improve efficiency for Microsoft 365 commercial customers.
  • Seamless integration: Both apps integrate with existing Microsoft 365 tools like Teams and OneDrive, reinforcing Microsoft's ecosystem.

Competitive Dynamics

  • Strengthening Microsoft's Position: These lightweight apps highlight Microsoft's focus on productivity and could further differentiate its offerings from competitors like Google Workspace and Salesforce.
  • Potential for Market Expansion: The preview availability suggests a phased rollout strategy, which may allow Microsoft to gather feedback before full-scale deployment.

Strategic Considerations

  • Design Philosophy: The "mini app" format with portrait mode display indicates a shift toward more specialized, compact utilities. This approach could influence future app design within the Windows 11 ecosystem.
  • Focus on Integration: While the apps are standalone, their integration with existing tools underscores Microsoft's emphasis on seamless user experience.

Long-Term Effects

  • Potential for Broader Adoption: If successful, these apps may encourage wider adoption of Microsoft 365 services and Windows 11 among businesses.
  • Regulatory Considerations: As part of the Microsoft 365 suite, these apps are subject to existing antitrust regulations and competition scrutiny.

Conclusion

Microsoft's announcement of File Search and People represents a strategic move to enhance productivity within its ecosystem. These lightweight companion apps aim to streamline workflows and provide deeper insights into organizational data. While their long-term success depends on user adoption and feedback, they signal Microsoft's ongoing commitment to innovation in the productivity space.