Microsoft Office Apps Discontinued for Chromebook - Web Versions to Replace

Microsoft Discontinues Office App Support for Chromebooks

Beginning in 2017, Microsoft made its Office suite available to Chromebook users through the Google Play store. However, this accessibility is nearing its conclusion.

Effective September 18th, Microsoft will be ending support for Office applications – encompassing Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Outlook – on Chromebook devices.

Shift to Web-Based Access

Despite this change, Microsoft isn't entirely withdrawing from the Chromebook platform. Instead of a downloadable application, the company is directing users towards web-based alternatives.

According to a statement provided to TechCrunch, Microsoft explained, “To deliver the most optimized experience for Chromebook customers, Microsoft apps (Office and Outlook) will transition to web experiences (Office.com and Outlook.com) on September 18, 2021.”

This transition is intended to provide Chromebook users with access to enhanced and premium features.

Benefits of the Web Experience

The move to web-based Office is designed to encourage Chromebook users to adopt Microsoft 365. This subscription service offers a wider range of Office templates and greater overall functionality compared to the app-based version.

Furthermore, the web applications are better optimized for use with larger screens.

To access Office and Outlook, users will be prompted to “…sign in with their personal Microsoft Account or account associated with their Microsoft 365 subscription,” as outlined in the official statement.

Microsoft has also published comprehensive online documentation to guide users through the process of utilizing Office on a Chromebook.

Understanding Chromebook Technology

Chromebooks operate on Google’s Chrome OS, a Linux-based operating system. The architecture of Chromebooks also allows for the execution of Android apps, as Android is also built upon the Linux foundation, and these apps are obtained via the Google Play store.

It’s crucial to understand that while Chromebook support is being phased out, Microsoft remains committed to other Android-based mobile devices, including tablets and smartphones.

Continued Functionality for Existing Users

Chromebook users who have already downloaded the Microsoft Office apps will find that they continue to function after September 18th.

However, these applications will no longer receive any support or future updates from Microsoft.