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Microsoft now lets you use Office apps on Windows for free but with ads and some limits
Microsoft has recently made headlines by adjusting the pricing of its Microsoft 365 subscription, citing the integration of enhanced AI features as the rationale behind this increase. This decision, however, has not been well-received by a segment of its user base. In a bid to counterbalance the backlash, Microsoft is now allowing Windows users to access Office applications without the need for a paid license.
Accessing Office Apps for Free
Users have discovered that they can now utilize Office applications on Windows without the traditional licensing requirements. Upon launching an Office app for the first time, a prompt appears asking for a Microsoft Account sign-in, but notably includes a “Skip for now” option. By selecting this, users are directed to a subsequent window where they can click “Continue for free,” bypassing the need for either a Microsoft 365 subscription or a perpetual license.
This new offering provides users with substantial functionality. Most features remain operational, allowing for document viewing and editing without significant restrictions. However, it is important to note that Microsoft stipulates files can only be saved to OneDrive, as indicated in the final prompt before users can fully engage with the app. This means that local file storage is not an option; users must first upload any local documents to OneDrive for editing. Additionally, users will encounter advertisements in a sidebar, with an option to remove these ads through a Microsoft 365 subscription.
Limitations of the Free Office Apps
While the free Office apps offer a range of features, there are notable limitations. Below is a summary of functionalities that are not available in the free versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint:
Currently, it seems that Microsoft is trialing this new approach with a select group of users and specific regions. Some users have reported that they were unable to access the feature, encountering a banner that prompts them to “Close Word” instead of offering the “Skip for now” option. This could explain the absence of any formal announcement from Microsoft regarding this initiative.
Would you consider using ad-supported Office apps on Windows for free? We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments.