How to Fix Read-Only Word Documents on iPad (Microsoft 365)
Question details
User needs to edit Word documents stored in OneDrive using the Word app on an iPad, but the files open as read-only.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- iPadOS
- Scenario
- Opening and editing a OneDrive document in the mobile Word app on an iPad.
- Observed behavior
- Documents are editable on desktop and Android phones, but remain read-only on the iPad even after updating and reinstalling the app.
Verify the exact model and screen size of your iPad, as Microsoft enforces different editing permissions based on device dimensions.
Upgrade to a Qualifying Microsoft 365 Subscription
Microsoft requires a paid subscription to create and edit documents on mobile devices with screens larger than 10.1 inches.
If you are using an iPad with a screen size larger than 10.1 inches (such as the iPad Pro or recent iPad Air models), the free version of the Microsoft Word app only allows you to view documents. A one-time purchase, such as an Office Home & Student license, does not grant mobile editing rights for large-screen devices.
Open the 'Settings' app on your iPad, tap on 'General', and select 'About' to find your specific device model.
Look up your iPad model on Apple's official website to verify the screen size. If it exceeds 10.1 inches, Microsoft restricts free editing.
Open the Microsoft Word app on your iPad and tap your profile icon in the top-left corner to access your account settings.
Review your current subscription status. To unlock editing, tap 'Go Premium' or sign in with an account that has an active Microsoft 365 Personal or Family subscription.
Edit Word Documents on Any iPad for Free with WPS Office
Avoid subscription paywalls based on your iPad's screen size. WPS Office provides a powerful, free alternative to Microsoft Word, allowing you to view, create, and edit documents seamlessly on any iPad model.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Open the App Store on your iPad, search for 'WPS Office', and install the free application.
- 2. Connect cloud storage: Launch WPS Office, go to the 'Cloud' or 'Open' tab, and link your OneDrive account to access your existing documents.
- 3. Start editing: Tap on any Word document to open it. You can instantly begin typing and formatting without encountering read-only subscription restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can I edit documents on my Android phone but not my iPad?
Microsoft allows free document editing on mobile devices with screens 10.1 inches or smaller. Most Android phones fall under this size limit, while many iPad models exceed it, which triggers the requirement for a paid Microsoft 365 subscription.
Does a one-time Office Home & Student license allow iPad editing?
No. A one-time purchase of Office Home & Student is strictly licensed for a single PC or Mac. It does not include mobile app editing rights for tablets and devices larger than 10.1 inches.
Will reinstalling the Word app fix the read-only issue?
Reinstalling the Word app will not resolve the issue if the root cause is a lack of a qualifying Microsoft 365 subscription on a large-screen iPad. You must either upgrade your account or use an alternative application.
How can I tell what size my iPad screen is?
You can find your iPad model name by navigating to Settings > General > About on your device. Searching for this model name on Apple's official website will confirm its exact diagonal screen size.
