Microsoft’s recent updates to Copilot for Windows allow users to connect Google services directly to the assistant. Once authorized, Copilot can search across Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Calendar alongside Microsoft 365 tools like Outlook, Word, Excel, and OneDrive.
Users can issue plain-language requests like “Show me last week’s deposition notes” or “Find today’s appointments with clients” and Copilot will retrieve results from both ecosystems. There is also new functionality to generate and export documents from within Copilot itself. This includes Word documents, Excel sheets, PowerPoint slides, and PDFs built from structured data or summaries created through the assistant.
This feature does not activate automatically. Users must opt in and explicitly connect their Google accounts. Once linked, Copilot gains access to the connected content and can use it to support daily tasks and workflows.
Why This Update Matters to Legal Teams
Law firms that have adopted both Google and Microsoft platforms will see immediate benefits. Staff can stay focused on the matter at hand instead of bouncing between windows to locate documents or emails. The ability to search multiple systems in one place reduces time spent digging for information and helps prevent mistakes caused by relying on outdated or incomplete files.
The option to create client-ready documents within Copilot can also save time. Memos, summaries, or tables can be formatted and exported with a few clicks. This can ease the burden of administrative work and allow attorneys to spend more time on analysis and strategy.
For firms that support hybrid work, this update makes it easier to manage information across home and office setups. Staff working from different devices or locations can still access everything they need without worrying about whether it’s stored in Google Drive or OneDrive.
Considerations Before You Enable the Feature
While the integration offers clear advantages, it also introduces new responsibilities. Connecting Copilot to both Microsoft and Google services gives it access to sensitive client data. Firms must ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place.
The assistant can only see what it is allowed to see. But when that includes confidential files or privileged emails, even an unintentional exposure can create risk. It is essential to establish a clear data governance policy before enabling these features. Know who is allowed to authorize connections, which accounts are linked, and what kind of content Copilot will access.
Firms should also implement a review process for AI-generated documents. While the technology can produce impressive first drafts, it is not a substitute for legal review. Any output shared with clients or courts must be checked for accuracy, tone, and context.
How to Move Forward Safely
- Start with a review of your data locations. Map where key documents, emails, and contacts are stored. This will help identify which systems need to be connected.
- Set permissions and policies. Decide who within the firm will be responsible for managing integrations. Limit access where appropriate.
- Test the features with non-sensitive content first. Use internal notes or training materials to evaluate how Copilot handles the information.
- Establish a review workflow. Treat Copilot-generated documents as drafts. Review them manually before they are used in any official capacity.
- Keep a log of account connections and access levels. This creates accountability and supports compliance during audits or reviews.
- Train your team. Make sure everyone understands what Copilot can do, where it pulls information from, and what the expectations are around privacy and oversight.
Final Thoughts
Copilot’s integration with Google services is a notable step forward for legal teams managing mixed platforms. The ability to search and work across Microsoft and Google tools from a single interface can simplify workflows and reduce the clutter of disconnected apps.
But convenience should never come at the expense of control. The firms that will benefit most from this change are the ones that take time to implement it thoughtfully. With the right policies, training, and oversight in place, this technology can support better work without compromising standards.