Many people today prefer listening over reading. Whether during a commute, workout, or quiet evening at home, audio content fits seamlessly into daily routines. Microsoft has taken note. Its latest update to Word allows users to transform written documents into engaging podcast-style audio summaries right inside the app.
This new feature brings convenience to a whole new level. Instead of reading through long reports or articles, users can now have the content read aloud in a dynamic, conversational format. The tool uses artificial intelligence to generate a natural-sounding audio version of any document. It’s designed to make information easier to absorb, especially for those who learn better by listening.
How the AI Podcast Feature Works
The feature is powered by Microsoft 365 Copilot, the company’s AI assistant integrated into its productivity suite. When activated, Copilot analyzes the content of a Word document. It then creates a script that mimics a real podcast interview, complete with two AI-generated voices that discuss the key points.
Users can access the tool in Word for Windows and Word for the web. This cross-platform availability is a notable upgrade. Most advanced features are typically limited to desktop versions. Now, even those using the browser-based Word can enjoy the same functionality.
To get started, open a document and launch Copilot. A pre-written prompt labeled “Create an audio interview” appears. Click it, or type your own request. Within moments, the AI processes the text and generates a spoken summary. The result feels like a short podcast episode based on your document.
User Control and Flexibility
Once the audio is ready, users have full control over playback. They can adjust the speed, skip ahead, or rewind to revisit important sections. If interrupted, they can pause and resume later. This flexibility makes it easy to fit listening into a busy schedule.
Another useful option is the ability to save the audio file. Users can store it directly in OneDrive. From there, they can access it anytime or share it with colleagues, friends, or students. This makes the feature valuable not just for personal use but also in educational and professional settings.
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The audio output is clear and well-paced. The two-voice format adds variety and keeps the listener engaged. It avoids the monotony often found in standard text-to-speech.
Availability and System Requirements
The feature is rolling out now to users of Word on the web. Those who log in through a browser should see it appear automatically. For desktop users, the update requires Word version 2506 (Build 18925.20138) or later. Microsoft is likely to expand access to more users in the coming weeks.
A Microsoft 365 subscription is required to use Copilot’s full range of features. While some basic tools are free, the AI podcast generator is part of the premium offering. This may limit access for casual users who don’t already subscribe.
Still, for professionals, educators, or students who rely on Microsoft Word daily, the investment could be worthwhile. The time saved by listening instead of reading can boost productivity and comprehension.
Not Everyone Is Convinced
Despite its benefits, not all users welcome Copilot with open arms. Some find the AI assistant intrusive. Others feel it adds unnecessary complexity to an otherwise simple word processor. A few have even cited Copilot as a reason to avoid upgrading to newer versions of Microsoft 365.
Microsoft continues to integrate AI deeper into its apps. While the podcast feature is a step forward in accessibility, it also highlights the company’s push toward AI-driven workflows. Whether this trend enhances productivity or overwhelms users may depend on personal preference.
Still, the ability to turn a dense document into an easy-to-digest audio format is a game-changer for many. It bridges the gap between reading and listening, offering a fresh way to interact with written content. As AI tools evolve, features like this could become standard in everyday software.
