Microsoft has quietly changed its earlier decision on ending support for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10. This comes as good news for millions of users still using the older version of Windows.
Windows 10 Users Get More Time to Use Microsoft 365 Apps
Previously, Microsoft had announced that Microsoft 365 apps would stop working on Windows 10 after October 14, 2025. This was a major concern for many because hundreds of millions of users still haven’t moved to Windows 11.
However, Microsoft has now extended the support for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 until October 10, 2028, giving users three more years.
What Was the Original Plan?
In January, Microsoft confirmed that Microsoft 365 apps would no longer be supported on Windows 10 after its end-of-support date in October 2025. This meant that users needed to upgrade to Windows 11 if they wanted to keep using apps like Word, Excel, and Outlook with updates.
The same rule already applies to older systems like Windows 7 and Windows 8, which no longer receive Microsoft 365 support.
What Changed and Why?
As spotted by tech site Neowin, Microsoft quietly updated its Tech Community blog and support documents. The new update says:
“To help maintain security while you transition to Windows 11, Microsoft will continue providing security updates for Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10 for three years after Windows 10 reaches end of support. These updates will be delivered through the standard update channels, ending on October 10, 2028.”
What Does This Mean for Windows 10 Users?
This change is very helpful for users who are still using older PCs and cannot upgrade to Windows 11. Many of these devices do not meet the hardware requirements, especially TPM 2.0, which is needed for Windows 11.
Microsoft is now offering free security updates for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10—even after the OS itself stops receiving updates.
What If Issues Occur on Windows 10?
Microsoft has warned that using Microsoft 365 apps on an unsupported system like Windows 10 could cause problems. If issues only happen on Windows 10 and not Windows 11, their support team will recommend upgrading.
However, if upgrading isn’t possible, Microsoft will still try to help—but they may not be able to provide full solutions or technical fixes.
A Hidden Benefit for Millions of Users
This new free extension may be seen as a “soft” way to give Windows 10 users more time before buying a new PC. It also shows that Microsoft understands not everyone is ready to move to Windows 11 yet.
This update brings some peace of mind to the estimated 240 million users who are stuck with older hardware.
Will There Be More Surprises Before October 2025?
It’s possible that Microsoft could announce more updates or changes as the original support deadline gets closer. Some experts hope there might even be a free security update extension for Windows 10 itself, not just the Microsoft 365 apps.
For now, this move provides extra time, improved security for apps, and helps users avoid making a rushed decision about buying new devices.
