Office for Mac Issues

Fix Custom Macro Icons Changed to Circles in Office for Mac Quick Access Toolbar

Camila Milosovich Oct 13, 2026 868 views

Question details

Custom Quick Access Toolbar (QAT) icons for macros have unexpectedly changed to generic circles after a software update.

Why Did Custom Macro Icons Change to Circles in Office for Mac Quick Access Toolbar?

Product: Word and Excel
Device & OS: Mac
Scenario: Using custom macros in the Quick Access Toolbar after installing an Office update.
Observed behavior: The macros still function correctly when clicked, but their custom icons are replaced by generic circles, making them difficult to identify visually.

Before you start

Verify that your macros are still functioning correctly by clicking on the circular icons before attempting to modify or re-add them to the toolbar.

Solution 1Recommended

Identify Macros Using Text Labels or Tooltips

Since recent Mac versions of Office restrict custom XML icon modifications, use tooltips and descriptive naming to differentiate your macros.

Unlike Windows, where custom Quick Access Toolbar (QAT) images can be modified through the template containing the macros and Office customization XML, Office for Mac has restricted this capability. Consequently, custom icons revert to generic circles.

Because modifying QAT icons through XML is not supported on Mac, relying on hover tooltips or descriptive macro names is the most reliable workaround.

Hover over the generic icon

Place your cursor over the circular icon in the Quick Access Toolbar for a few seconds to reveal the macro's name in a tooltip.

Rename macros for clarity

Navigate to the Macro dialog (View > Macros), select your macro, and assign it a clear, descriptive name so the tooltip easily identifies its specific function.

Platform Limitation: Available documentation indicates that QAT icons cannot be modified through XML on Mac. Customization remains limited compared to the Windows version of the software.

Solution 2

Re-add Macros to the Quick Access Toolbar

Sometimes re-adding the macro can refresh the toolbar cache, though it may still utilize a default icon depending on your version.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I restore my custom macro icons on Mac using XML editing?

No, unlike the Windows version, recent updates to Office for Mac restrict the ability to modify Quick Access Toolbar icons via XML files.

Are the macros broken if their icons have turned into generic circles?

No, the generic circle icon is purely a visual interface issue. Your custom macros will continue to function normally when you click on them.

Will downgrading my software version bring the custom icons back?

Reverting to an older version of the software might restore the icons, but it is generally not recommended as it can expose your device to security vulnerabilities and result in the loss of newer features.

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