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How to Change Microsoft 365 Update Channels for Add-in Compatibility
Question details
The user needs to switch their Microsoft 365 update channel from Current to an Enterprise channel to support a specific third-party PowerPoint add-in.
- Product
- Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to use a Bloomberg PowerPoint add-in that requires a specific enterprise update channel for stability.
- Observed behavior
- The add-in is not supported on the Current Channel, prompting the user to figure out how to switch channels and determine if their current Family license allows it.
Verify your current Microsoft 365 subscription type, as consumer plans like Microsoft 365 Family do not support switching to Enterprise update channels.
Verify License and Switch Channel via Microsoft 365 Admin Center
Identify if your license supports enterprise channels and configure the deployment switch through the Admin Center.
Update channels dictate how often your Office apps receive feature updates. The Current channel receives updates as soon as they are ready, whereas the Monthly Enterprise and Semi-Annual channels offer more stability for third-party add-ins like Bloomberg.
Consumer licenses (such as Family or Personal) lack the administrative controls needed to access these enterprise deployment channels.
Open PowerPoint, click on File, and select Account. Look under Product Information to see if you are using a Business, Enterprise, or Family plan.
Reach out to Bloomberg support to confirm the exact Microsoft 365 Apps version and specific update channel required for the add-in to function properly.
If you have an eligible Enterprise plan, log into the Microsoft 365 Admin Center. Navigate to Settings > Org settings > Microsoft 365 installation options, and select the required feature update channel (e.g., Monthly Enterprise).
Change Update Channel using the Office Deployment Tool (ODT)
Advanced users and IT administrators can use the Office Deployment Tool to switch a specific device's update channel locally without reinstalling.
Switch to WPS Office for a Lightweight and Hassle-Free Experience
If Microsoft 365 licensing restrictions and complex update channels are causing workflow bottlenecks, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, free alternative with robust capabilities for Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files without the burden of enterprise channel management.
- 1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded file and follow the simple on-screen instructions to complete the setup process.
- 3. Open your files seamlessly: Launch WPS Presentation and open your existing .pptx files to continue your work without compatibility issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy a new license to switch Microsoft 365 update channels?
No, update channels are deployment options rather than separate products. However, you must have an eligible Business or Enterprise subscription, as consumer plans like Microsoft 365 Family do not support enterprise channels.
Why is the Bloomberg add-in not supported on the Current Channel?
The Current Channel receives frequent updates which can occasionally break compatibility with complex third-party add-ins. Enterprise channels provide slower, thoroughly tested update rollouts ensuring better stability for professional tools like Bloomberg.
Can I change the update channel if I have Microsoft 365 Family?
No, Microsoft 365 Family and Personal plans are restricted to the consumer update channels and cannot be switched to Monthly Enterprise or Semi-Annual Enterprise channels. You would need to upgrade to a Business or Enterprise plan to access these features.
