How to Fix Cannot Resize or Move Text Boxes in Word for Android on Chromebook
Question details
The user is unable to manipulate the size or position of text boxes when using the Microsoft Word application on a Chromebook.
- Product
- Microsoft Word for Android
- Device & OS
- Chromebook / Android OS
- Scenario
- Attempting to format a document by adding, moving, or resizing text boxes or shapes on a Chromebook device.
- Observed behavior
- Text boxes can be inserted and edited for text content, but the drag handles do not respond when trying to resize or move the text box around the page. Additionally, the web version of Word does not support inserting text boxes at all.
Verify that your Chromebook's Chrome OS and the Microsoft Word app downloaded from the Google Play Store are updated to their latest versions to rule out any temporary syncing bugs.
Use Microsoft Word for Windows or Mac as a Workaround
Since the resizing bug is a known limitation currently under investigation by the Microsoft Word product team, switching to a desktop environment is the official workaround.
The Microsoft support team has acknowledged that text box manipulation handles failing to respond is a known issue within the Android version of Word when used on Chromebooks. Until an update is released, document formatting requiring precise text box placement must be done on a full desktop OS.
Ensure your current document on the Chromebook is saved and fully synced to your OneDrive account.
Log into your Microsoft 365 account on a Windows PC or an Apple Mac device and open the desktop application of Microsoft Word.
Select the text box in the desktop application. You can now click and drag the handles to seamlessly resize or move the box to your desired location.
Submit Diagnostic Feedback to Microsoft
Reporting your specific device configuration helps the Microsoft product team isolate the Chromebook compatibility bug faster.
Seamlessly Edit Text Boxes on Chromebook with WPS Office
If you are frustrated by the inability to move or resize text boxes in Word for Android on your Chromebook, switching to WPS Office provides an immediate, hassle-free solution. WPS Office is fully optimized for Chrome OS, giving you complete control over document formatting, text boxes, and shapes without needing to switch to a Windows or Mac PC.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office for free from the Google Play Store on your Chromebook.
- 2. Open your Word Document: Launch WPS Office and open your existing .docx file directly from your local storage or cloud drive.
- 3. Manipulate Text Boxes Freely: Tap on any text box and easily drag the highlighted handles to resize or reposition it perfectly on the page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I add a text box using the web version of Microsoft Word?
Microsoft Word for the Web is a streamlined version of the desktop app and lacks support for several advanced formatting tools, including the ability to insert and format floating text boxes or shapes.
Is there an estimated date for when Microsoft will fix this issue on Chromebooks?
Currently, the Microsoft product team is investigating the text box resizing limitation in the Android app on Chromebooks, but they have not provided an official estimated resolution date.
Can I use Google Docs instead to resize text boxes on my Chromebook?
Yes, Google Docs can handle basic text boxes via its Drawing tool. However, if you need strict .docx formatting compatibility and seamless floating text box manipulation, using a robust alternative like WPS Office is highly recommended.
