AI is no longer a future discussion in the workplace. It is already embedded in how teams plan, write, meet, analyse, and decide. Microsoft 365 Copilot moved quickly from pilot projects into day to day use across many organisations. That speed creates opportunity, but it also introduces pressure. Leaders now need proof. They need clarity. They need to know where AI adds value and how to scale it responsibly.
This month, three developments define the Modern Workplace conversation.
First, organisations are shifting from experimenting with Copilot to measuring its real business impact. Second, voice interaction is changing how people engage with Copilot throughout the day. Third, Microsoft introduced Copilot Business bundles for small and midsize businesses while also confirming pricing changes coming in mid 2026.
Together, these updates signal a clear message. AI adoption continues, but maturity now depends on measurement, enablement, and planning.
Below is a summary of each focus area, with links to the full Modern Workplace blogs on the Braintree website.
- AI value and measurement.
- Voice in Microsoft 365 Copilot and why it changes daily work.
- Copilot Business bundles, promotions, and why timing matters.
Each blog goes deep, with practical guidance and context for South African organisations.
Unlocking AI impact. From usage to measurable value.
AI adoption accelerates across every industry. Microsoft 365 Copilot reshapes how people work by streamlining routine tasks, supporting creative work, and freeing teams to focus on higher value outcomes. That speed creates a challenge for IT and business leaders.
The data is clear.
82 percent of business leaders expect to use AI driven solutions in the next 12 to 18 months.
More than 45 percent already automate workflows.
Many still lack a framework to measure return on investment.
Early success stories help momentum, but anecdotes do not stand up in executive and finance discussions. Leaders now ask harder questions. Where does Copilot get used. Who benefits. What changed. What is the business outcome.
This is where Copilot Analytics becomes essential. It provides visibility into adoption, usage patterns, and engagement. It allows organisations to connect AI activity to measurable outcomes and report on value with confidence.
The full blog breaks down how Copilot Analytics works, what leaders should track, and how to move from experimentation to accountability.
Read the full blog here.
Voice in Microsoft 365 Copilot. A more natural way to work.
How people interact with AI matters as much as what AI can do. Microsoft introduced voice capabilities in the Microsoft 365 Copilot mobile app on iOS, with Android, desktop, and web following. This changes Copilot from a typing experience into a conversation.
Users now speak naturally and receive spoken responses grounded in their own work data. This removes friction. It fits better into real workdays.
Microsoft also introduced an opt in feature on Windows devices called Hey Copilot. This enables hands free activation. You capture ideas while walking between meetings. You brainstorm without stopping to type. You prepare for your next meeting by asking Copilot directly.
Microsoft usage data shows people interact with Copilot about twice as much when using voice compared to text. Higher engagement leads to more consistent value.
The full blog explores where voice fits best, which roles benefit most, and how organisations should think about enablement and adoption.
Read the full blog here.
Copilot Business bundles and pricing changes. Why planning matters now.
Microsoft announced the general availability of Microsoft 365 Copilot Business, designed for organisations with fewer than 300 users. Copilot Business bundles Copilot with Microsoft 365 Business plans and brings AI capability to small and midsize businesses at scale.
For a limited time, Microsoft introduced discounted bundles running from 1 December 2025 to 31 March 2026. These promotions reduce the cost of entry while improving productivity and security.
At the same time, Microsoft confirmed pricing changes effective 1 July 2026. New customers move to updated pricing immediately. Existing customers see changes at their next renewal after that date.
This combination makes early planning critical. Organisations that review licensing now gain cost certainty and avoid rushed decisions later.
The full blog explains the bundles, outlines who they suit best, and highlights why February and March are key planning months.
Read the full blog here.
February is a checkpoint.
If you use Copilot today, measure its impact.
If you plan to adopt Copilot, enable it properly.
If you manage licensing, review it before pricing changes arrive.
Braintree works with organisations at every stage of this journey.
From readiness and measurement to rollout and optimisation, the Modern Workplace continues to evolve. These February updates show where the focus should sit next.
