Starting at the end of January 2026, Microsoft will permanently remove access to several key features in older versions of Office 365 apps, forcing a significant update requirement for users who want to keep using them. The changes affect Transcription and Dictation—exclusive to Word—and the Read Aloud feature, which is available across Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and OneNote. This shift comes as part of a backend service upgrade, and for the first time, Microsoft is enforcing an update as a prerequisite to retain functionality.
The company has specified that users must be running at least version 16.0.18827.20202 of Office 365 before the deadline. Microsoft strongly recommends that organizational admins take proactive measures by verifying their teams’ Office versions now and planning upgrades early to avoid last-minute disruptions. Beyond keeping these features active, updating will also introduce security patches, performance enhancements, and additional tools—making it a necessary step for long-term usability.
For Microsoft, this is another step in phasing out legacy infrastructure in favor of newer, more efficient services. Users who ignore the update will lose these tools entirely, while also leaving themselves open to potential cyber threats associated with running outdated software. Although upgrading to the latest Microsoft 365 plan is the most seamless way to adapt, switching to another modern office platform could be a viable route for those seeking alternatives.