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Fix Microsoft 365 Apps Asking for Subscription on iPad & Excel Link Issues
Question details
The user needs to activate their Microsoft 365 subscription on an iPad because the apps are requesting a trial, and they also need a solution for Excel external links not functioning on the device.
- Product
- Microsoft 365 Apps (Word, Excel)
- Device & OS
- iOS / iPadOS
- Scenario
- Activating Microsoft 365 apps on an iPad and attempting to work with Excel workbooks that contain external links.
- Observed behavior
- Microsoft 365 apps on the iPad repeatedly prompt the user to start a trial or purchase a subscription, and Excel external links that work fine on Windows are unsupported on the iPad version.
Ensure you have the login credentials for the Microsoft account that holds your active Microsoft 365 subscription, and verify your internet connection is stable.
Sign Out and Re-Sign In to the Microsoft Account
Re-authenticating your account forces the iPad app to sync with Microsoft's servers and recognize your active PC subscription.
Sometimes, Microsoft apps on the iPad default to the free version, failing to automatically detect a subscription purchased or activated on a PC. Manually refreshing the account login usually resolves this issue.
Launch Word or Excel on your iPad from the home screen.
Tap on your account profile icon, usually located in the top-left corner of the app interface.
If you are already signed in with a free or incorrect account, tap 'Sign Out' to remove the current profile.
Tap 'Sign In' and enter the email address and password associated with your active Microsoft 365 subscription to unlock full features.
Use Excel for the Web for External Links
Since the iPad version of Excel does not support external workbook links, using the web version is the best workaround.
Experience Seamless Mobile Productivity with WPS Office
If you are frustrated by subscription prompts and missing features like external link support on your iPad, switch to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, fully compatible, and free alternative to Microsoft Office, ensuring your spreadsheets, presentations, and documents work smoothly across all devices.
- 1. Download from the App Store: Search for WPS Office in the Apple App Store on your iPad and download it for free.
- 2. Open Your Files: Launch the app and connect your preferred cloud storage to easily access your existing Microsoft Office documents.
- 3. Edit Without Limitations: Enjoy full mobile editing capabilities for your spreadsheets and text documents instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn't my iPad show up in my Microsoft account device list?
It is normal for iOS devices like iPads and iPhones not to appear in the Microsoft account device list. This listing primarily tracks Windows and Android devices. It does not mean your app installation or subscription activation failed.
Can I use Excel external links directly in the iPad app?
No, the native Excel app for iPad is a simplified version of the desktop software and does not support updating or managing external links between workbooks. You must use a PC or Excel for the Web.
Why are my Microsoft apps on iPad asking me to start a trial if I already paid?
This happens when the app defaults to a free version state because it hasn't properly synced your credentials. Tapping the account icon, signing out, and signing back in with your subscribed account's email will restore your premium access.
