In late January 2026, Microsoft introduced that the Learn Transcription, Dictation, and Aloud options will cease engaged on older variations of Workplace 365 purposes.
Studying aloud permits customers to hearken to doc and e mail studying, Transcription converts speeches to textual content in actual time, and dictation permits voice to enter textual content throughout workplace purposes.
The corporate suggested its clients to replace its Microsoft 365 workplace app to variations above 16.0.18827.20202 (launched early July) by the top of January 2026 to keep up entry to those accessibility and productiveness options.
This deadline gives most organizations with roughly one yr to plan and implement software program updates they want throughout their total atmosphere.
Nevertheless, Redmond added that authorities cloud clients utilizing GCC, GCC Excessive and DOD environments will take one other two months to replace their software program by March 2026.
“We’re upgrading back-end providers that promote these capabilities to make sure steady high-quality efficiency of Microsoft 365 Workplace Apps studying, transcription and oral options,” the corporate mentioned in a Message Middle message on Friday.
“Because of this, these options will not work on workplace shoppers operating variations previous to 16.0.18827.20202 since January 2026.”
This modification is attributed to Microsoft’s resolution to improve backend providers that improve these voice-enabled options. Customers operating an workplace shopper with a model quantity beneath the required threshold will lose entry to the characteristic after the deadline.
The corporate says workplace shoppers operating variations above 16.0.18827.20202 are usually not affected by infrastructure upgrades and haven’t modified present performance.
In Could, Redmond introduced plans to finish assist for Home windows 10 workplace apps later this yr, and introduced that it’s going to proceed to supply safety updates for an additional three years till 2028.
A month in the past, in April, Microsoft reminded clients that Workplace 2016 and Workplace 2019 would attain the top of prolonged assist two months afterward October 14, 2025.
