Microsoft Tests Free, Ad-Supported Office Version in India
Microsoft is currently testing a free, ad-supported version of its popular Office suite for Windows users in India. This move marks a significant shift from the company’s current model, which requires a Microsoft 365 subscription for full access to desktop versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other Office applications.
The tech giant confirmed that the testing is limited in scope, with no immediate plans for a broader launch. This new version includes permanent banner ads and 15-second video advertisements, allowing users to access Office applications without paying a subscription fee.
However, the ad-supported version comes with certain limitations. Users are required to store their documents in OneDrive, as local storage is disabled. Additionally, some features available in the full version are absent from this free offering.
Word users will find drawing and design tools, as well as line spacing options, unavailable. Excel lacks support for add-ins, pivot tables, and macros, while PowerPoint does not include dictation or custom slide show features.
Microsoft already offers free versions of Office applications on the web, but these are more limited compared to their desktop counterparts. The introduction of an ad-supported desktop version could potentially bridge the gap between web-based and full subscription offerings.
This testing phase follows Microsoft’s previous experiments with AI-powered Office features within Microsoft 365 subscriptions. Those tests were initially limited to select countries before a global rollout accompanied by price increases.
While Microsoft maintains that there are no immediate plans for expansion, the testing of an ad-supported Office version may indicate potential future changes to the company’s product lineup and pricing strategy.
As the testing continues in India, industry observers and users alike will be watching closely to see how this new approach to Office accessibility develops and whether it will eventually reach a global audience.
