Microsoft introduced that the transcription, dictation, and skim aloud options will cease working in older variations of Workplace 365 functions in late January 2026.
Learn aloud lets customers hear paperwork and emails learn again, transcription converts speech into textual content in real-time, and the dictation characteristic permits for voice-to-text enter throughout Workplace functions.
The corporate suggested prospects to replace their Microsoft 365 Workplace apps to a model increased than 16.0.18827.20202 (launched in early July) by the tip 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 the mandatory software program updates throughout their environments.
Nevertheless, Redmond added that authorities cloud prospects utilizing GCC, GCC Excessive, and DoD environments have two extra months, till March 2026, to replace their software program.
“To make sure continued high-quality efficiency of the Learn Aloud, Transcription, and Dictation options in Microsoft 365 Workplace apps, we’re upgrading the backend service that powers these capabilities,” the corporate mentioned in a Friday message heart message.
“In consequence, these options will not perform on Workplace shoppers operating variations sooner than 16.0.18827.20202 after January 2026.”
The change stems from Microsoft’s resolution to improve the backend service that powers these voice-enabled capabilities. Customers operating Workplace shoppers with model numbers beneath the required threshold will lose entry to the options after the deadline.
The corporate acknowledged that Workplace shoppers operating variations increased than 16.0.18827.20202 won’t be affected by the infrastructure improve and can expertise no modifications to their present performance.
In Could, Redmond additionally introduced plans to finish help for Workplace apps on Home windows 10 later this yr and that it’ll proceed offering safety updates for 3 extra years, till 2028.
One month earlier, in April, Microsoft reminded prospects that Workplace 2016 and Workplace 2019 will attain the tip of prolonged help two months from now, on October 14, 2025.
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