Running Office 365 on Windows 10? Microsoft just tightened the screws
Image: Microsoft
Microsoft has made another adjustment to the restrictions that it plans to place on Windows 10 customers who use Microsoft 365 apps (previously called Office 365), gradually incentivizing them to move to Windows 11.
You’re probably aware that Microsoft is discontinuing support for Windows 10 users this October, has it has said repeatedly for years. But it is also turning off support for Microsoft 365 apps like Word and Excel, too, on the same day: Oct. 14, 2025. Apps like Word will still work, and to ensure a smooth transition Microsoft will still support Microsoft 365 apps with security updates for three years, until 2028.
What’s new? Microsoft has clarified that “security updates” do not include “feature updates” that include new features.
“Devices running Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10 will receive feature updates until Version 2608 is released on the following dates: August 2026 for Current Channel (including all versions for individuals and families),” Microsoft says.
“Devices will remain on Version 2608, receiving only security updates until October 10, 2028,” the company added.
The company is basically warning that if you value the new features being introduced to Microsoft 365, such as new AI-powered content-creation tools, you’ll want to move to Windows 11 or risk falling behind. Is it more of the carrot, though, or the stick?
Further reading: Windows 10’s end of life looms. A security pro dissects your only options
Author: Mark Hachman, Senior Editor, PCWorld
Mark has written for PCWorld for the last decade, with 30 years of experience covering technology. He has authored over 3,500 articles for PCWorld alone, covering PC microprocessors, peripherals, and Microsoft Windows, among other topics. Mark has written for publications including PC Magazine, Byte, eWEEK, Popular Science and Electronic Buyers’ News, where he shared a Jesse H. Neal Award for breaking news. He recently handed over a collection of several dozen Thunderbolt docks and USB-C hubs because his office simply has no more room.
