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Will Microsoft Release a New Perpetual Office Professional Version?
Question details
Users want to know if Microsoft plans to release a new one-time-purchase (perpetual) version of Office Professional instead of requiring a Microsoft 365 subscription.
- Product
- Microsoft Office
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Planning to upgrade from older standalone Office versions like Office 2019 or 2021 without moving to a subscription model.
- Observed behavior
- Seeking official roadmap confirmation on the future availability of non-subscription Office Professional editions.
Before deciding on your next software upgrade, verify your current Microsoft Office license type and check the expiration date of its official support lifecycle.
Check Microsoft's Official Licensing Announcements
Since product roadmaps change, monitoring Microsoft's official channels is the best way to confirm the release of Office 2024 or other perpetual licenses.
Microsoft has announced an Office 2024 release for specific volume-licensing editions (LTSC). However, based on available information, there is currently no confirmed roadmap for a standard one-time-purchase Office Professional edition for general consumers.
To find the most accurate and up-to-date information, you should check Microsoft's official press releases and Tech Community blogs.
Open your web browser and navigate to the official Microsoft 365 Blog or the Microsoft Tech Community website.
Use the site's search bar to look for terms like 'Office 2024 LTSC' or 'Office one-time purchase release'.
When reading announcements, look specifically for terms like 'Consumer' or 'Small Business' editions, as Commercial LTSC versions are generally restricted to enterprise volume licensing.
Switch to WPS Office for a Free, Perpetual-Like Experience
If you prefer to avoid ongoing subscription fees from Microsoft 365, WPS Office provides a powerful, lightweight, and completely free alternative with a highly familiar user interface.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and click the free download button to get the installer.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the downloaded setup file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
- 3. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Office to instantly view, edit, or create Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files without a mandatory subscription.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Microsoft 365 and Office Professional?
Microsoft 365 is a subscription service that requires recurring payments and provides continuous feature updates. Office Professional (like Office 2021) is a one-time purchase (perpetual license) that receives security patches but no major new feature updates after release.
Will Office 2024 be available as a one-time purchase?
Microsoft has confirmed Office 2024 as a perpetual, one-time purchase for specific commercial volume-licensing (LTSC) customers. It remains unconfirmed if a standard consumer or small business Professional version will be offered.
Can I keep using Office 2019 or 2021 forever?
Yes, one-time purchase versions do not expire and will continue to function. However, once they reach the end of their official support lifecycle, they will no longer receive security updates, potentially exposing your device to vulnerabilities.
Does WPS Office require a subscription to use basic features?
No, WPS Office offers a robust free tier that allows you to create, view, and edit documents, spreadsheets, and presentations without needing to pay for a subscription.
