Microsoft plans to completely rebrand Microsoft Office as Microsoft 365. After a long period of discontinuing the Microsoft 365 brand, the software giant plans to update the name of its software bundle.
The company, which also develops the Windows operating system, will completely overhaul the brand it has used for two decades.
Previously, two years ago, Microsoft renamed Office 365 to Microsoft 365, while Microsoft Office is now the company name.
Microsoft Office to Be Rebranded as Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365 is a productivity and document processing platform that includes Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Outlook, and more. With this rebranding, Microsoft will introduce a new icon, a new look, and several new features.
Users can start with the web and mobile versions for free. However, to access the Microsoft 365 apps and premium features, a subscription is required.
This was officially shared in the FAQ on Microsoft’s official website under the “What’s changing?” section.
Over the past few years, Microsoft 365 has evolved into a leading productivity product, allowing you to create new experiences to get the most out of Microsoft 365.
In the next few months, Office.com, the Office mobile app, and the Office App for Windows will become a Microsoft 365 app, with a new icon, a new look, and even some new features.
When Will the Update Take Place?
This change will apply to everyone who uses Microsoft Office for school, work, and personal use. The change will begin rolling out in November 2022. The Office App for Windows and the Office App for Android and iOS will roll out in January 2023.
According to Microsoft, there will be no changes to accounts, profiles, subscribed users, or user files. When the update is released, the Microsoft Office app will automatically update with a new name and icon.
Microsoft Office won’t be completely gone. The company will continue to offer one-time purchases to customers through Office 2021 and Office LTSC.
Customers who already subscribe to Office 365 plans will also experience no changes. After this rebranding, Microsoft Office will become a legacy service. All new features will be introduced in Microsoft 365, instead of Microsoft Office.
What is Microsoft 365?
As explained above, Microsoft 365 is a cloud-based productivity and document management platform that includes apps like Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, One Drive, Teams, and many more.
You can start with the free app and web version or upgrade to a premium plan to access more apps, storage, and premium features.
What’s the Difference Between Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Office?
One of the main differences between Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Office is the cloud features they use. Both apps can connect to Microsoft OneDrive. However, Office 2019 does not include storage space on OneDrive.
Furthermore, Office users also do not have access to the web version of Microsoft 365. Therefore, Office can only be used through the app.
Microsoft Office 2019 also doesn’t include all Microsoft Office software, but only some core software, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, OneNote, and Skype. Meanwhile, Microsoft 365 includes all the latest Microsoft applications, such as Microsoft Teams, Editor, and Money in Excel.
However, considering that Microsoft Office will be updated to 365, Microsoft will stop providing Microsoft Office, and users will be directed to use Microsoft 365.
But don’t worry, for those who previously subscribed to a Microsoft Office 365 business plan, the package will automatically be updated to Microsoft 365. The available packages remain the same, only the package name has been updated.
Can I Access Files Even Offline?
Previously opened files can be accessed in Microsoft 365 even offline. Changes made offline will also be automatically updated to the cloud.
So, don’t worry, Microsoft 365 users still have access to their files even offline. When online, changes will be automatically saved.
Where Can I Get Microsoft 365?
To experience Microsoft 365, you can try the web version on the official website. The online version can be accessed at Microsoft Office Online Free | Word, Excel, PowerPoint.
You can also find the app on the Apple App Store, Google Play, and the Microsoft Store. There are various plan options available, including personal, family, business, and more.
Final Words
So, are you interested in using this update from Microsoft? Its cloud features will certainly make it easier for users to work anytime, anywhere.
Collaborating with teams will also be easier.