Microsoft Office 2019 users on Apple devices will lose document editing, saving, and creation capabilities on July 13, 2026. According to Microsoft, these apps will enter a “reduced functionality mode” due to an expiring licensing certificate. While Office 2021 and Microsoft 365 users can maintain full access through software updates, Office 2019 users will be limited to viewing and printing only.
Why will Microsoft Office apps stop working on Apple devices?
The upcoming restriction stems from a required licensing update for Microsoft products running on Apple hardware. Microsoft explains on its Support blog that a current certificate will expire on July 13, 2026. Once this expiration occurs, the software will automatically transition into “reduced functionality mode” for users who have not updated their systems.
In this mode, users can still open, view, and print documents. However, the software will block all actions involving the creation of new files or the editing and saving of existing ones. This change specifically targets apps including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote. Microsoft states this occurs when support for these apps is no longer maintained for specific devices or operating systems.
Which Microsoft versions are at risk?
The impact of this update depends entirely on which version of the Office suite a user currently owns. Because Microsoft has different support lifecycles for its products, some users will face a permanent loss of features while others will experience a simple update process.
According to Microsoft’s documentation, the following distinctions apply:
- Office 2019: This version is already without support, having reached its end-of-life on October 10, 2023. Because it no longer receives updates, users on macOS, iPad, and iPhone will be unable to fix the editing restrictions when they arrive in 2026.
- Office 2021: These users remain covered for the upcoming transition. While Office 2021 is scheduled to lose support in December 2026, the July 2026 update will allow these users to maintain full functionality.
- Microsoft 365: Subscribers to the Microsoft 365 service will not face permanent restrictions, provided they keep their devices and applications updated.
How can I keep my editing capabilities?
For the majority of users, the transition will be seamless. Microsoft states that users of Office 2021 and Microsoft 365 can restore full editing capabilities by performing two specific steps: updating the Apple device’s operating system and updating the Office applications themselves. This process provides the software with a new, valid license.
It is important to note that this restriction is specific to the Apple ecosystem. Microsoft’s current guidance indicates that devices operating outside of macOS, iOS, or iPadOS should not experience these specific licensing issues.
| Software Version | Affected Devices | Post-July 2026 Status | Fix Available? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Office 2019 | macOS, iPad, iPhone | View/Print Only | No |
| Office 2021 | macOS, iPad, iPhone | Full Functionality | Yes (Update) |
| Microsoft 365 | macOS, iPad, iPhone | Full Functionality | Yes (Update) |
Did you know?
The “reduced functionality mode” is a standard way Microsoft manages software that no longer meets security or licensing requirements. This prevents outdated software from accessing cloud services or creating potentially insecure files.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fix Office 2019 to allow editing after July 2026?
No. According to Microsoft, Office 2019 support ended in 2023, meaning no further updates will be released to address the licensing certificate expiration.
Will this affect Windows users?
No. Microsoft has stated that the restriction is specifically tied to how Office apps function on Apple devices, including macOS, iPad, and iPhone.
What happens if I don’t update my Microsoft 365 apps?
If you do not update your device and your Office apps, you may encounter the same “reduced functionality mode” where you can only view and print files.
Are you prepared for the upcoming software changes? Share your thoughts on the transition to newer Office versions in the comments below, or subscribe to our newsletter for more tech updates.
