Not able to select custom template when trying to use copilot to create presentation

Question

When using the PowerPoint desktop app, I’m unable to find my custom template to select. I’ve confirmed that the template is available when I go to "New Document," and it appears correctly when I use PowerPoint Online—specifically, I can select it when I choose "Create a presentation with Copilot." However, this option doesn’t show up in the desktop version. Is there a way to fix or enable this in the desktop app??

Answer 1

Hi changemate, 
Just checking in to see if the above information was helpful. If you have any further updates on this issue, please feel free to post back. If you think my reply is helpful to you, please remember to mark it as an answer. Warm thanks. 

Vicky-I - MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

Answer 2

Hello changemate**,**

Welcome to the Microsoft Community!

My name is Vicky and I’m happy to assist.

Thank you for reaching out regarding the issue you're experiencing with selecting a custom template when using Copilot in the PowerPoint desktop app.

Based on your description, it sounds like you're able to access your custom template in PowerPoint Online via the "Create a presentation with Copilot" feature, but not in the desktop version. This is a known limitation. If I understand right, let me explain this situation base on my researched:

The PowerPoint desktop app currently does not support direct selection of branded or custom templates during the initial Copilot prompt. Instead, Copilot starts with a default layout and allows you to describe your presentation. Template selection is more fully supported in PowerPoint Online and the Microsoft 365 Copilot app, where you can browse and apply branded templates before generating content.

So, I recommend you some suggestions you can try:

1. Start from the Template First
   Open PowerPoint desktop, go to File > New, and select your custom template from the Custom Office Templates folder. Then use Copilot to generate content within that template.
2. Apply Template After Creation
   Use Copilot to create your presentation, then go to Design > Themes > Browse for Themes and manually apply your custom template.
3. Use PowerPoint Online or Microsoft 365 Copilot App
   These platforms allow you to select branded templates directly when starting a presentation with Copilot.

Additional Notes

• Make sure your template (.potx) is saved in the correct location:
  C:\Users\
• If you're part of an organization, templates may be stored in a shared asset library. You can access these via the New screen in PowerPoint under your organization’s name.

For more details, you can refer to this official Microsoft support article:
Use branded templates in the Microsoft 365 Copilot app

I’m always here to help so feel free to reply here if you have any troubble!

Warm regards,

Vicky-I - MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist