Microsoft ending Office app support for Windows 10 on October 14th

Microsoft has announced that it will discontinue support for Office apps, also known as Microsoft 365 apps, on Windows 10 later this year. This decision aligns with Windows 10’s end of support on October 14th, necessitating businesses and consumers who depend on Microsoft 365 apps to upgrade to Windows 11.

Implications of Microsoft’s Decision

According to a blog post by Microsoft, “Microsoft 365 Apps will no longer be supported after October 14, 2025, on Windows 10 devices. To use Microsoft 365 Applications on your device, you will need to upgrade to Windows 11.”

While support for Office apps on Windows 10 will cease in October, Microsoft clarifies that the applications will continue to function as usual after the end of support. However, there may be performance and reliability issues over time.

Microsoft’s Push for Windows 11 Adoption

Microsoft is urging users to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 in 2025, referring to it as “the year of the Windows 11 PC refresh.” Yusuf Mehdi, executive vice president and consumer chief marketing officer at Microsoft, emphasized the importance of upgrading Windows 10 PCs to Windows 11.

Despite Microsoft’s efforts, Windows 11 adoption lags behind Windows 10, with many devices unable to meet the new OS’s strict hardware requirements. Microsoft’s insistence on TPM 2.0 for Windows 11 has led to challenges for users, prompting the company to encourage the purchase of new PCs.

Extended Security Updates and Future Outlook

In addition to ending support for Windows 10, Microsoft is introducing Extended Security Updates for consumers for the first time. Consumers can opt for an extra year of updates for $30, while businesses have the option to purchase up to three years of extended updates.

Conclusion

As Microsoft transitions towards Windows 11, users face the challenge of upgrading their systems to meet the new requirements. The shift from Windows 10 to Windows 11 marks a significant change in the tech landscape, emphasizing the importance of staying updated with the latest software.

FAQs

Q: What are the implications of Microsoft discontinuing support for Office apps on Windows 10?

A: Users will need to upgrade to Windows 11 to continue using Microsoft 365 apps after the support cutoff in October.

Q: Can Windows 10 users still use Office apps after support ends?

A: While support will end, the applications will continue to function, but there may be performance issues over time.

Q: How is Microsoft encouraging Windows 10 users to transition to Windows 11?

A: Microsoft is positioning 2025 as “the year of the Windows 11 PC refresh” and urging users to upgrade for better performance and security.

Q: What options do consumers have for extended security updates?

A: Consumers can purchase an extra year of updates for $30, while businesses can opt for up to three years of extended updates.

Credit: www.theverge.com