Microsoft Tests Ad-Supported Office Apps on Windows: What We Know
Microsoft appears to be developing a free, ad-supported version of its Office suite, according to recent reports. This move would allow users to utilize applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint without needing to pay for a subscription. However, this version will incorporate advertisements and could have certain feature limitations.
Microsoft is reportedly testing a free, ad-supported version of its Office suite.
Limited Testing Underway
A Microsoft representative confirmed to Engadget that the company is currently conducting “limited testing” for this new version. No official launch date or broader availability has been announced at this time.
Currently, Microsoft Office is freely accessible only through its web-based platform.
How the Ad-Supported Version Will Work
Reports suggest that the ad-supported Office version will integrate advertisements directly into the application interface. Users can expect a sponsored content banner to appear on the right side of the screen, along with periodic 15-second video ads. Microsoft will generate revenue through these ads, enabling them to offer the software at no cost to users. A report from Beebom indicates that this move aims at providing a cost-free alternative to the Microsoft 365 plan.
Feature Limitations
Alongside the advertisements, users can expect some restrictions on features and storage capabilities in the free version. Documents will have to be saved to OneDrive, eliminating the option for local storage. This could prove inconvenient for people who need to work offline. Also, certain advanced features will be unavailable. In Word, drawing and design tools, and the dictation feature will be missing. Excel will lack conditional formatting, recommended charts, and some advanced functions, while PowerPoint will exclude drawing, animation, and recording tools.
Microsoft has yet to release a comprehensive list of the features that will be omitted. More information is anticipated as testing proceeds. No timeline for a wider release has been set, but updates could be released within the coming months.
