Earlier this year, we were recommending the included version of Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat as an accessible starting point for organisations adopting AI. In recent weeks, image generation limits have become more apparent and Microsoft has now announced that "fair use" restrictions will apply to more Copilot Chat (Basic) features for users without a paid Copilot add-on licence.
The latest restrictions began rolling out on 9 November 2026. If you reach a limit, Copilot will ask you to try again later.
The difficulty is knowing what to expect. Microsoft hasn’t published specific allowances or a full breakdown of the features affected, and availability can vary throughout the day. That makes it harder to plan around a tool people are increasingly using for everyday work.
For us, the biggest concern is what people might do when they reach a limit.
Someone who has been using Copilot Chat through their work account may turn to a personal account or another AI tool to finish the job. If they take work information with them, they could be moving it outside the protections and oversight their organisation has put in place.
This is one way shadow AI grows: people using AI tools for work without the organisation’s knowledge or approval. Often, they’re simply trying to get something done.
They have a report to finish, notes to summarise or a deadline to meet. If their approved tool becomes unavailable, finding another option may feel like the practical thing to do.
That’s why this change deserves attention beyond a licensing discussion.
Changes like this reinforce why AI needs a clear place in your organisation’s strategy. Decisions about tools and licences are part of a wider picture.
We believe every organisation should have a practical AI roadmap covering:
The I.T. Team can help you decide where to start and where to invest, so AI makes a real difference to your organisation.
Get in touch. We'd love to talk with you.
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