In a strategic shift, software giant Microsoft has announced the termination of support for its standalone Office apps on the Windows 10 operating system. This decision comes as the company aims to transition users to its integrated cloud-based platform, Microsoft 365. The announcement means that the tech giant will cease to provide updates, bug fixes, and security patches for its standalone Office apps, encouraging users to move toward Microsoft 365, a subscription-based service that includes access to these apps and more.
Beginning with the discontinuation of support for the standalone Office 2016 suite, Microsoft has gradually phased out support for its older standalone software. This move is in line with the company's ongoing efforts to centralize its services and focus on subscription-based models. The decision to end support for standalone Office apps on Windows 10 is expected to affect millions of users worldwide and is a significant step in Microsoft's push toward a more integrated, cloud-based future.
While standalone Office apps will no longer receive updates, they will continue to function. However, without ongoing support and updates, these applications may become vulnerable to security risks and will not benefit from any new features or improvements. On the other hand, Microsoft 365 offers a wealth of benefits, including regular updates, enhanced security, and access to new features as they roll out. It also offers users the flexibility of accessing their files and working from any device that has internet connectivity.
Despite this bold move, Microsoft has assured its users that it will continue to support the standalone Office apps on other platforms, including Mac, iOS, and Android. The company has also stated that it would continue to provide long-term support for its Office 2019 and Office 2021 products, although these will be the last versions of the standalone Office suite.
This announcement signifies a major milestone in Microsoft's ongoing transition to a subscription-based model, and while the change might be disruptive for some users, it comes with the promise of improved functionality, security, and convenience in the long run.