How to Fix Cannot Open ODP Files in Microsoft 365 for iPhone
Question details
The user is unable to open OpenDocument Presentation (ODP) files using Microsoft 365 on an iPhone, which may subsequently prevent standard PPTX or PPSX files from opening as well.

- Product
- Microsoft 365 for iOS
- Device & OS
- iPhone / iOS
- Scenario
- Attempting to view or edit an ODP presentation file on an iPhone using the Microsoft 365 or PowerPoint mobile app.
- Observed behavior
- An error message appears when trying to open the ODP file, and the app may glitch, causing subsequent attempts to open PPTX or PPSX files to fail.
Verify that your ODP file is not corrupted by successfully opening it on a desktop computer first, and ensure you have a stable internet connection for potential app updates.
Isolate the File and Update iOS and PowerPoint
Determine if the issue is isolated to a single corrupted file or a software bug by testing a new ODP file and applying the latest app updates.
Compatibility glitches between certain ODP files and older versions of Microsoft 365 for iOS can cause the app to display errors and temporarily freeze its file-reading capabilities.
Open PowerPoint or another presentation software on your Windows or Mac computer, create a blank presentation with a simple shape or text, and save it locally as an OpenDocument Presentation (.odp) file.
Send this new test ODP file to your iPhone via email or a cloud storage service like OneDrive or iCloud. Tap the file on your iPhone and try opening it in Microsoft 365. If it opens successfully, your original ODP file is likely corrupted or contains unsupported elements.
If the test file also fails, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone and install any pending system updates to ensure base compatibility.
Open the App Store, tap your profile icon in the top right corner, and scroll down to check for updates. Update Microsoft 365 or the standalone PowerPoint app to the latest version (ensure it is version 2.82 or newer).

Use WPS Office to Open ODP and PPTX Files on iOS
If Microsoft 365 continues to struggle with OpenDocument formats on your iPhone, WPS Office provides a highly compatible and lightweight alternative that natively opens ODP, PPTX, and PPSX files without crashing or displaying errors.
- 1. Download WPS Office for iOS: Open the App Store on your iPhone, search for 'WPS Office', and install the free mobile application.
- 2. Locate your ODP file: Open the Apple Files app, your email, or your preferred cloud storage drive where the problematic ODP file is saved.
- 3. Open with WPS Office: Tap the ODP file, select the standard iOS 'Share' icon, and choose WPS Office from the app list to instantly view and edit your presentation without errors.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Microsoft 365 on iPhone display an error with ODP files?
ODP (OpenDocument Presentation) is not a native Microsoft format. While technically supported, specific elements created in alternative software (like LibreOffice) can cause parsing errors in the mobile iOS version of Microsoft 365, occasionally crashing the app's document viewer.
How do I fix the Microsoft 365 app if PPTX files also stop opening?
If a failed ODP file causes your Microsoft 365 app to glitch and reject PPTX or PPSX files, force close the app by swiping up from the bottom of your screen and swiping the app away in the iOS App Switcher. Reopen the app, and standard PPTX files should work again.
Can I convert my ODP file to PPTX to bypass this issue?
Yes. The most reliable workaround is to open the ODP file on a desktop computer using PowerPoint or WPS Office, and use the 'Save As' feature to export the presentation as a standard .pptx file before sending it to your iPhone.
Are ODP files fully compatible with Microsoft PowerPoint mobile?
PowerPoint mobile offers basic support for ODP files, but advanced formatting, complex transitions, or custom animations created in OpenOffice may not display correctly, or they may trigger file-reading errors.




