Microsoft has ended support for Office, leaving users unable to use apps like Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
As of Monday (July 13), Microsoft 365, Office 2021, and Office 2019 no longer function on Apple devices.
This leaves users unable to edit or create documents in Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, or OneNote.
The apps will enter a “reduced functionality mode”, allowing users to open and print files but preventing any editing, saving, or creation of new documents.
So I can officially not use @Office because my Mac is apparently out of date. This is alienating to many who can’t update their software systems because of the year of their computer and very disappointing when you’ve paid for the program. Will not be renewing my subscription 😌
— Sephyr Patriq (@Sephyrpatriq) July 14, 2026
What’s happening
The change affects both Microsoft 365 subscribers and users of non-subscription Office software such as Office 2021 and Office 2019 on macOS, iPhones, and iPads.
A Microsoft spokesman said: "Starting July 13, 2026, some users may notice that Office apps (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, or OneNote) can open and print files, but cannot edit, save, or create new files – called “reduced functionality mode"."
The decision is part of Microsoft’s policy to end support for software running on older, unsupported operating systems.
Without security updates or technical support, continued use of these versions could pose security risks for users.
Microsoft has reassured users that their files remain safe even if the apps become read-only.
Which devices are affected?
This issue affects both Microsoft 365 subscribers on macOS, iPhone, and iPad, and those with non-subscription software, including Office 2021 or Office 2019 on macOS.
Microsoft added: "For most users, updating your OS and updating your apps will resolve it."
To continue using Microsoft 365 or Office 2021 on Apple devices, users must be running macOS 12 (Monterey) or later on Macs, and iOS 17 or later on iPhones and iPads.
Devices unable to upgrade to these operating systems will not be able to update the Office apps.
For users of Office 2019 on Macs, the news is more final.
Support for Office 2019 for Mac ended in October 2023, and the apps can no longer be updated to the required version.
This means users of Office 2019 on unsupported Apple devices will lose the ability to edit, save, or create files, with no upgrade path available for the existing apps.
A Microsoft spokesman said: "If your Mac doesn't support macOS 12 (Monterey), or your iPhone or iPad doesn’t support iOS 17, you won’t be able to install the required updates.
"Because Office 2019 cannot be updated to the required version, this issue cannot be resolved by updating or reinstalling Office 2019 for Mac."
Windows and Android users are not affected by this change.
What can users do?
Microsoft recommends using Microsoft 365 on the web as a workaround, with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more available for free at microsoft365.com through any internet browser.
Users can also install Office apps on another supported device using their Microsoft 365 or Office 2021 licence.
Upgrading to a newer device will enable users to run the latest operating systems and continue using Office apps without interruption.
Other options include subscribing to Microsoft 365 for the latest features and updates, or purchasing Office 2024 for Mac for a one-time licence.
Microsoft added: "If you choose to upgrade to Microsoft 365 or Office 2024 for Mac, you'll simply need to remove the existing Office 2019 for Mac license, but you won't need to remove your Office apps."
You can find details on how to remove your existing Office licence and update your apps on the Microsoft website.
Checking what version of Office you have
To check which version of Office you’re using on a Mac, open any Office app and select 'About [App Name]' from the menu.
Microsoft 365 will be listed for subscribers, while non-subscription users will see Office 2021 or Office 2019.
On iPhones and iPads, users will be running Microsoft 365 for mobile.
Are you affected by this latest Microsoft Office shutdown? Let us know in the poll above or in the comments below.
