Older Workplace 365 app variations will lose three options quickly. Replace now!

Earlier this month, Microsoft introduced by way of admin heart message that sure current options will now not be accessible in older variations of Workplace 365 apps beginning finish of January 2026. The change is because of a backend service replace that impacts these options. For the primary time, a daily Workplace replace shall be obligatory for all customers.

The affected options embrace Transcription, Dictation, and Learn Aloud. Transcription and Dictation are solely accessible in Phrase, whereas Learn Aloud is offered in Phrase, Outlook, PowerPoint, and OneNote.

To proceed utilizing these options, you will have to replace your Workplace 365 to a minimum of model 16.0.18827.20202 by finish of January 2026.

In case you’re the admin of a company, Microsoft advises that you must take motion by checking your group’s Workplace model and updating nicely forward of time. With out updating, these options will cease working altogether; in the meantime, the replace itself is simple and brings with it a number of new options and safety enhancements.

This measure is one other transfer by Microsoft to liberate assets for present providers by dropping assist for older providers. Customers with outdated installations danger not solely lacking options but additionally safety vulnerabilities. Switching to Microsoft 365 or different Workplace options might be an possibility for these affected.