Microsoft plans to release a new version of Office in October 2024. The company is breaking from the trend of subscription-only models by offering Office 2024 as both a subscription and a one-time purchase, fulfilling a longstanding user request.
New Office package with flexible licensing options
Microsoft is departing from an unpopular tradition by giving users the freedom to choose between subscribing or making a one-time payment for the latest version of Office. This decision will likely come as a relief to many users who can still opt for the subscription version of the office software but are not required to do so.
Office 2024 will not only be flexible in licensing options but will also be available across platforms on Windows 10 and for both 32-bit and 64-bit systems. Microsoft promises to maintain the software for the next five years on Windows and Mac systems. Another new feature is the support for OpenDocument Format 1.4 in programs like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
A significant step for Office 2024 is the end of ActiveX. This outdated technology, once used for interactive elements in documents, will be permanently disabled (Source: TechRepublic). This change not only means fewer security risks but ideally also greater stability for Microsoft’s Office applications.
Pricing and release details
Microsoft has not yet provided specific pricing information for Office 2024. According to earlier statements from the company, there should be no fundamental changes in pricing. Experts anticipate a release date in October, similar to its predecessor, Office 2021. A preview version for businesses has been available since the end of April, offering early insights into the office software.