Turn Your Word Docs into Podcasts with Microsoft 365 Copilot

Turn Your Word Docs into Podcasts with Microsoft 365 Copilot

Discover how Microsoft 365 Copilot’s new audio overview feature in Word transforms documents into podcast-style summaries.  It's perfect for multitaskers, educators, and busy professionals.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

August 11, 2025

Have you ever wished that your documents could talk to you?

You’re rushing between meetings, juggling emails, and trying to prep for tomorrow’s presentation. 

That 10-page report sitting in Word? 

It’s not getting read anytime soon. 

But what if it could read itself to you like a podcast, tailored to your pace?

Here's a Cool Tip:  Let Microsoft Word Read to You.

Key Takeaways

• Microsoft 365 Copilot’s latest feature in Word reads your document to you. 
• It turns your document into an audio overview you can listen to on the go. 
• Whether you’re commuting, cooking, or just tired of staring at screens, this new tool offers a smarter way to absorb content.

What Is the Audio Overview Feature?

Microsoft 365 Copilot in Word for Windows and Word for the web now lets users generate a podcast-style audio summary of any document written in English. 

It’s designed for speed, convenience, and accessibility, especially when reading isn’t an option.

Once generated, the audio can be played, paused, sped up, skipped through, or saved to OneDrive for later listening or sharing. 

Think of it as your document’s elevator pitch, delivered in a format that fits your lifestyle.

What You’ll Gain

• Save time by listening instead of reading
• Share summaries with teammates or students
• Stay productive while multitasking

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here's how to do it.

Microsoft Word (Web/Desktop)

1. Open your document in Word for Windows (Version 2506 or later) or Word for the web.
2. Click the Copilot button in the Home tab.
3. Select the suggested prompt or type: "Generate an audio overview from this document."
4. Use the audio player to:
• Adjust playback speed
• Skip forward/back
• Pause/play
5. To save the audio:
• Click the More options (...) button
• Select Save to OneDrive

fig. 1 - Turn Any Microsoft Word Document into a Podcast-Style Summary

iOS / Android

• Currently, this feature is not supported on mobile apps. Use Word for the web via your mobile browser as a workaround.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Makes long documents digestible in minutes.
• Ideal for multitasking professionals.
• Easy sharing via OneDrive.

Cons

• Only works for online files (OneDrive/SharePoint).
• English-only for now.
• Requires at least 100 words.

Configuration Guide

• To enable the feature:

• Ensure your document is stored in OneDrive or SharePoint.
• Use Word for Windows (Version 2506+) or Word for the web.
• Confirm your Microsoft 365 Copilot license is active.

Feature Access

Available to:

• Microsoft 365 Copilot subscribers.
• Word for Windows (Version 2506+) users.
• All Word for the web users.

Not available for:

• Documents stored locally.
• Non-English documents.
• Mobile apps (native).

Score

Score | Criterion | Justification

Value: 9/10 

Transforms passive reading into active listening—perfect for busy professionals and educators.

Usability: 8/10 

Simple to use, but limited to online files and English content.

Wow Factor: 8/10 

Feels fresh and clever—like your document just got a voice.

Total Score: 25/30 🌟 Excellent. Highly recommended for immediate use.

Key Takeaways

Microsoft 365 Copilot’s audio overview feature in Word offers a smart, time-saving way to consume content. 

It’s ideal for multitaskers, educators, and anyone who prefers listening over reading. 

While it has some limitations, its potential is undeniable.

Try It Yourself

Give it a spin today.  

Open a Word doc, click Copilot, and let your document talk to you. 

Share your experience in the comments, subscribe to our newsletter, and pass this tip along to your team.

READ MORE

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• How to Use Version History in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
  

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Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind www.OneCoolTip.com where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into www.OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.

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