Microsoft Quietly Releases Free Ad-Supported Office—But There’s a Catch

Microsoft has introduced a new version of Microsoft Office for Windows that allows users to edit files for free, even without a Microsoft 365 subscription or an Office license key. While this version is based on full desktop apps, most of its functionality remains locked behind a Microsoft 365 subscription.

One key limitation of this free version is the presence of persistent ads within Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, as first reported by Beebom. Additionally, users cannot edit local files. Instead, all documents must be saved and edited through OneDrive, restricting offline access.

To use the free version, users simply need to open an Office application without signing in. They will then be prompted to choose whether to continue using Office for free with ads and limited features. In this mode, users can open, view, and perform basic edits on documents, similar to the web-based version of Office.

However, the free edition comes with several restrictions. Features such as dictation, advanced formatting, SmartArt, Designer tools, and add-ins are unavailable. The software is limited to the most basic document editing and authoring tools, and users must subscribe to Microsoft 365 to unlock advanced capabilities.

Testing suggests that this free version of Office is still in a limited rollout. Users attempting to access it may encounter a sign-in requirement, indicating that Microsoft is conducting A/B testing with select users or restricting access to certain regions.

Interestingly, Microsoft has not officially announced this version, nor has it been mentioned in any support documentation. More details about the availability and expansion of this free Office suite may emerge in the coming days or weeks.