Excel Canvas offers to turn your workbook into the boss's next report
Copilot builds charts and metrics from spreadsheet data, with automatic refreshes when the numbers change
Microsoft is set to launch Excel Canvas, a feature that will convert spreadsheet data into polished reports incorporating visualizations, metrics, and insightful analyses. According to Microsoft, these reports will automatically update in line with changes to the underlying data. To create these reports, users must have access to Copilot in Excel. They can then refine the reports using natural language prompts.
This initiative is part of Microsoft's ongoing efforts to enhance Excel's capabilities. Recently, the company introduced an opt-in feature allowing multiple values in a single cell, a move that may complicate matters for third-party tools expecting one value per cell. Additionally, Microsoft's use of Copilot-generated elements, such as Dynamic Action Buttons and CopIL() functions, has not always been warmly received.
After the abrupt removal of a Copilot Dynamic Action Button, Microsoft reverted and allowed users to relocate it to the toolbar.
Microsoft also briefly suspended the Copilot() function in August, citing concerns about the reliability of its output, particularly when it comes to making business decisions or preparing reports. The company ultimately decided against pursuing this feature. The introduction of Excel Canvas comes at a time when businesses are already utilizing dashboard tools, which may make it difficult for this new feature to gain traction.
Written by urgent.news from The Register Science's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
