Introduction
On March 9, 2023, Microsoft took an important step by announcing the availability of MCP Apps in Microsoft 365 Copilot. Through the combination of MCP Apps and the OpenAI Apps SDK, agents can now integrate rich and interactive interfaces directly into Copilot conversations, optimizing user fluidity and productivity.
Toward an Interactive Experience
Traditionally, applications served to provide information. But with Copilot and the integration of MCP Apps, agents become proactive, enabling users to take action directly from the conversation.
Good to Know
MCP Apps interfaces are HTML-based and run securely via a sandboxed iframe in Copilot.
How MCP Apps Work
Through Work IQ, agents can:
- Present data in the form of tables, forms, diagrams, or charts.
- Create dashboards and advanced visualization surfaces.
- Guide the user through complex processes without leaving the initial context.
For example, Copilot can:
- Consolidate travel receipts from emails.
- Update a CRM opportunity after a meeting.
- Reconcile invoices automatically.
Use Cases
Discover how Microsoft partners are leveraging MCP Apps:
Data Entry and Visualizations
Automate data entry or display information as heatmaps directly in Copilot with Power Apps.
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Project Management or Process
Example: Microsoft Expense, which automatically matches email receipts to credit card transactions, simplifying expense reports.
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Content Generation
Create marketing flyers with Adobe Express, graphics with Canva, or custom workflows in Figma without leaving Copilot.
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Training and Learning
Copilot can search for courses on Coursera directly from a conversation.
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Create Your Interactive Agents
To develop your own MCP agents, use the Microsoft 365 Agents Toolkit:
Configure an MCP Server
Set up an MCP server using official SDKs for interactive capabilities.
Use the Toolkit
1# Add the necessary plugin2/plugin marketplace add microsoft/work-iq3/plugin install microsoft-365-agents-toolkit@work-iq#4 5# Describe the desired agent6"Create a declarative agent with an MCP server and a dashboard widget for insurance claims."Tip
Agents follow security standards like OAuth 2.1 and Microsoft Entra SSO to ensure data security.
UX Considerations
Adopt these options based on your needs:
- Inline mode: For lightweight widgets displayed before the model's response.
- Side-by-side mode: Provides advanced workspace for complex interactions.
Publish Your Agent
Agents can be shared within your organization or published to the Agent Store for wider visibility. Steps include:
- Sideload for internal testing.
- Publish via the Microsoft 365 Admin Center.
- Validation and approval by Microsoft for the marketplace.
Resources for Developers
Explore these sources to learn more:
- Join the community on Microsoft Q&A.
- Explore GitHub repositories such as MCP InteractiveUI Samples.

We can't wait to see what you'll create with MCP Apps!



