Microsoft Copilot Missing Buttons in Classic Outlook

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Microsoft is investigating an ongoing problem affecting Copilot and Copilot Chat interface elements in Classic Outlook for certain Windows users.

Overview of the Issue

Microsoft continues to investigate an ongoing problem affecting the visibility of Copilot and Copilot Chat interface elements within the Classic Outlook application for certain Windows users. The issue, first acknowledged during a service update in June, specifically impacts individuals utilizing the Copilot Chat (Basic) license or paid M365 Copilot (Premium) accounts.

Technical Details and Symptoms

Symptoms Reported by Users

Affected users report the absence of Copilot-related buttons in key navigation areas, including the side panel and ribbon interface. Technical symptoms include the disappearance of the Copilot button from the top-right section above the ribbon, the absence of the Copilot icon in the left app bar or More Apps area, and functional failures when attempting to access Copilot through the Add Apps feature. Users may encounter errors where the application appears as an available option but fails to launch, or where ribbon customization tools display the command as disabled.

Root Cause Identified

Microsoft’s investigation reveals that the Outlook team has identified a root cause related to the inability to locate the MAPI property PR_PROFILE_USER_SMTP_EMAIL_ADDRESS_W within the null profile section. This deficiency disrupts the persistence of Copilot-specific settings within the application.

Temporary Solutions and Workarounds

Recommended Actions

As a temporary solution, Microsoft recommends enabling the “Show Apps in Outlook” option within the Classic Outlook settings. This involves navigating to the File tab, selecting Options, accessing the Advanced settings, and checking the “Show Apps in Outlook” box under the “Outlook panes” section. Users may also mitigate the issue by creating a new Outlook profile or switching to the newer Outlook client or Outlook Web Access (OWA) interface.

Separate Bug with Kaspersky Antivirus

Outlook Crashes on Kaspersky Systems

Microsoft has confirmed a separate bug linked to unexpected Outlook crashes on systems running Kaspersky Antivirus software. While the Outlook team continues to analyze this matter, affected Kaspersky users are advised to contact Kaspersky support for assistance.

Earlier this year, Microsoft addressed other compatibility issues that rendered the Classic Outlook client nonfunctional when specific add-ins were enabled. The company remains active in resolving ongoing technical challenges affecting its email platform.