If you run a business in Metro Atlanta, chances are your tech stack is a mix of tools.

Your team might use Gmail for email, Google Calendar for scheduling, and Microsoft apps like Outlook, OneDrive, and Word to get real work done.

That mix works… but it often creates friction.

Searching for emails across platforms.
Checking two calendars before booking a meeting.
Wasting time switching between apps instead of serving clients.

That’s where Microsoft Copilot comes in.

One AI Assistant for Your Entire Workflow

Microsoft recently introduced an update that allows Copilot to connect to both Microsoft and Google services. If you choose to enable it, Copilot can now access Gmail, Google Calendar, Outlook, and OneDrive from one interface.

For Atlanta-area business owners and office managers, that means:

  • Asking Copilot when you last emailed a client — even if it was in Gmail
  • Checking availability across Outlook and Google calendars before scheduling
  • Reducing double-booking and missed follow-ups
  • Spending less time hunting for information and more time running your business

Instead of managing tools, your tools start working together.

Designed for Busy SMB Teams

Local businesses don’t have time for unnecessary complexity.

Whether you’re running a professional services firm in Marietta, a medical office in Kennesaw, or a growing company in Alpharetta, productivity matters. Copilot’s cross-platform visibility helps teams move faster without forcing a full platform switch.

And just as important — you stay in control.

Copilot only accesses the accounts you explicitly authorize. If you’d rather keep your Google and Microsoft tools separate, nothing changes. Microsoft also states that your data isn’t used to train its AI models, giving business owners more peace of mind.

More Than Search: Built-In Content Creation

Copilot isn’t just about finding emails and meetings.

It’s quickly becoming a productivity engine for SMBs. You can ask it to:

  • Turn notes into a Word document
  • Create a PowerPoint presentation
  • Generate a professional PDF

Longer responses now include an export option, allowing you to send content directly into the format you need — without jumping between apps.

For lean teams common across Metro Atlanta, this means less manual work and fewer interruptions.

What This Signals for Local Businesses

Right now, this update is rolling out to Windows Insiders, but it signals where Microsoft is heading: fewer steps, fewer apps, and smarter workflows.

It’s also notable because it shows Microsoft and Google tools working together instead of competing — a big win for businesses that already use both.

The Bigger Question: Trust & Security

Of course, there’s one question every business owner should ask:

How much access should your AI assistant have?

Linking email and calendars means sharing sensitive business data. While Microsoft emphasizes user control and privacy, every organization should evaluate security settings carefully — especially in industries with compliance or client confidentiality requirements.

That’s where having the right IT partner matters.

How Custom Technologies Helps Metro Atlanta Businesses Use AI Safely

AI tools like Copilot can be powerful — when they’re configured correctly.

At Custom Technologies, we help Metro Atlanta SMBs:

  • Evaluate AI tools before rolling them out
  • Secure Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace environments
  • Set proper permissions and access controls
  • Reduce risk while increasing productivity

Let us manage your network so you can manage your business.

If you’re curious whether Copilot is right for your team — or how to use it safely — we’re here to help.

👉 Contact Custom Technologies today to talk through your options.

FAQs

What is Microsoft Copilot used for in small businesses?

Microsoft Copilot is an AI assistant that helps small businesses search emails, manage calendars, create documents, and automate everyday tasks across Microsoft (and now Google) platforms.

Can Microsoft Copilot access Gmail and Google Calendar?

Yes — with the latest update, Copilot can connect to Gmail and Google Calendar if you choose to enable it, allowing cross-platform search and scheduling.

Is Microsoft Copilot secure for business use?

Copilot only accesses data you give it permission to use. Microsoft states that business data isn’t used to train its AI models, but proper configuration is essential for security.

Do I need to switch entirely to Microsoft to use Copilot?

No. Copilot can work with both Microsoft and Google tools, making it useful for businesses that already use a mix of platforms.

Should my business enable Copilot?

That depends on your workflow, data sensitivity, and security needs. Many Metro Atlanta SMBs benefit from the productivity boost, especially when paired with professional IT guidance.

Can an MSP help set up Copilot securely?

Yes. A managed IT provider like Custom Technologies can help configure Copilot, manage permissions, and ensure your environment stays secure and compliant.