Microsoft is currently experimenting with a new version of its Office suite, which will be funded through advertisements. This new option is mainly available for Windows users and includes popular programs like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. However, it is not accessible to everyone; only a select group of users is seeing this ad-supported version.
For those who have access to this version, it is important to note that it comes with several limitations. The features in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint have been reduced. For instance, Word is missing basic features like adjusting line spacing and adding borders. Excel does not offer functions like conditional formatting or pivot tables, and PowerPoint lacks animation tools. Some might argue that not having these extra features could simplify the programs, but it is clear that they are not as comprehensive as the full versions.
Moreover, this ad-supported edition only allows users to create, edit, or save documents using OneDrive, which is Microsoft’s cloud storage service. Users cannot open files saved directly on their computers unless they pay for a subscription to unlock these capabilities along with the missing features.
The ads themselves are positioned as a constant banner on the right side of the screen and may include muted video advertisements. A key point to note is that the version being tested does not include Microsoft’s AI tools, which are usually part of the Office experience.
Although reports about this ad-supported edition have come out, it seems that Microsoft is being cautious with its rollout. A representative from Microsoft mentioned that they are conducting limited tests and currently have no immediate plans to offer an ad-supported version of the Office desktop applications to the public. Nonetheless, the ongoing experiments suggest that Microsoft might consider a wider launch in the future. This could be in response to the increasing competition from free or open-source alternatives to Microsoft Office, as the company has been raising prices and introducing more AI-related services.
In the past, users who wanted desktop versions of Microsoft’s productivity tools had to purchase a subscription or a one-time license. This new initiative is not simply repackaging Microsoft’s existing web applications; rather, it aims to provide full desktop versions with certain features being locked unless users opt for one of the paid versions.
Microsoft has a history with advertising in its products. For instance, in 2023, it experimented with placing ads in the Windows 11 Start Menu, and in 2022, it tested ads in the File Explorer. By providing an ad-supported Office version, users would be informed upfront about the nature of the software they are using. However, it also means that Microsoft can still gather user data, as accessing this version requires a Microsoft account and usage of OneDrive for file storage.
Overall, while this ad-supported Office suite is still in testing, it reveals Microsoft’s strategy to tap into a potentially lucrative market, which could change how users engage with their productivity tools in the future.