Microsoft’s latest icon for the Copilot app within Microsoft 365 has sparked controversy due to its poor readability on low-resolution displays. According to Windows Central, the embedded text within the icon, which reads “M365,” becomes almost indecipherable on screens with lower pixel density. This issue is particularly noticeable when the icon is pinned to the Taskbar.
Users with devices like the Surface Laptop Go, known for its lower resolution screen, are especially affected. The low pixel density renders the “M365” text nearly illegible, leading to misinterpretations such as “MJEG,” “M366,” or “M355.”
The new Copilot 365 logo.
This design flaw has generated considerable discussion online, with users expressing frustration over the icon’s lack of clarity. Adding to the confusion is the similarity between the icons for Microsoft 365 Copilot and the standalone Copilot chat service. While Microsoft 365 Copilot integrates with apps like Excel, Word, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Outlook, the standalone Copilot app functions solely as a chat platform. The near-identical icons create an unnecessary ambiguity between these distinct services.
While this design oversight doesn’t impact the functionality of either application, it raises concerns about the level of attention to detail given to the design process. The almost indistinguishable icons could be perceived as a lack of investment in user experience. Microsoft has yet to address this issue publicly, but users hope for a redesign to differentiate the two icons more effectively. It remains to be seen whether a revised icon will appear in future updates.
